Cell Division and Genetics Review

These flashcards cover key concepts related to cell division, meiosis, and Mendelian genetics.

Cell Division

The process used by multicellular organisms for growth, maintenance, and repair, and by single-celled organisms to reproduce.

Somatic Cells

Cells that typically have 2 matched sets of chromosomes and are diploid (2n).

Gametes

Reproductive cells such as eggs and sperm, which have half the number of chromosomes and are haploid (1n).

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where normal growth occurs and preparation for cell division takes place.

Mitotic Phase

The phase of the cell cycle in which the cell divides, including processes such as karyokinesis and cytokinesis.

G1 Phase

The first phase of interphase, characterized by biochemical activity and cellular growth.

S Phase

The phase of interphase in which DNA synthesis occurs, resulting in identical copies of DNA molecules.

G2 Phase

The second phase of interphase where energy is replenished and organelles reproduce in preparation for division.

Mitosis

The process of nuclear division resulting in two identical daughter cells.

Cytokinesis

The process that divides the cytoplasm of a cell, resulting in two distinct daughter cells.

G2 Checkpoint

A control mechanism that ensures conditions are right for the cell to enter mitosis, checking for cell size, protein reserves, and DNA integrity.

M Checkpoint

Also known as the spindle checkpoint; it ensures all sister chromatids are correctly attached to spindle microtubules before continuing the cell cycle.

Meiosis

A special type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half to produce haploid gametes.

Prophase I

A stage in meiosis where homologous chromosomes pair up for crossing over.

Chiasmata

The points where homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material during crossing over.

Genotype

The specific combination of alleles an individual possesses for a particular trait.

Phenotype

The observable characteristics or traits of an organism.

Homozygote

An organism with two identical alleles for a trait, which is always true breeding.

Heterozygote

An organism with two different alleles for a trait, resulting in non-true breeding.

Punnett Square

A grid used to predict the genotypes of offspring from a cross of two parents.

Mendel's Law of Independent Segregation

The principle stating that alleles segregate independently during gamete formation.

Incomplete Dominance

A genetic situation where one allele does not completely dominate another, resulting in a blending of traits, such as pink flowers from a red and a white parent.