Untitled Flashcards Set

Meiosis

Cell division that generates haploid gametes from a diploid parent cell, requiring two nuclear division phases.

Mitosis

Cell division process creating two identical daughter cells, maintaining the same diploid chromosome count as the parent.

Haploid

A cell with a single set of chromosomes (1n).

Diploid

A cell containing two sets of chromosomes (2n), one from each progenitor.

Fertilization

The merging of two haploid gametes to form a diploid zygote.

Genetic Variation

Diversity in genetic composition among individuals, vital for evolutionary processes and adaptability.

Crossing Over

Genetic material exchange between non-sister chromatids during meiosis prophase I.

Synapsis

The alignment of homologous chromosomes during meiosis prophase I.

Tetrad

A formation consisting of a pair of homologous chromosomes, each with two sister chromatids.

Gametes

Haploid reproductive cells (sperm and eggs) that fuse during fertilization.

Cohesin

Protein complex that maintains sister chromatid attachment at the centromere.

Chiasma (plural: chiasmata)

The site where homologous chromosomes undergo genetic material exchange during crossing over.

Independent Assortment

The random arrangement of homologous chromosome pairs during meiosis metaphase I, promoting genetic diversity.

Ploidy Level

Determines the number of chromosome sets in a cell, classified as haploid (1n) or diploid (2n).

Sister Chromatids

Identical chromosome copies joined at the centromere.

Meiosis I

The initial meiotic division that separates homologous chromosomes, reducing ploidy from diploid to haploid.

Meiosis II

The subsequent meiotic division that splits sister chromatids, producing four haploid gametes.

Down Syndrome

A genetic disorder resulting from an extra copy of chromosome 21, linked to meiotic errors.