DNA Replication, Mitosis, and Meiosis

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering essential terms and definitions related to DNA replication, mitosis, and meiosis.

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

The molecule that carries genetic information in all living organisms.

Double Helix

The ladder-like structure formed by two chains of nucleotides in DNA.

Nucleotide

The basic building block of DNA, consisting of a sugar, phosphate group, and nitrogenous base.

Adenine (A)

One of the four nitrogenous bases in DNA that pairs with thymine.

Thymine (T)

One of the four nitrogenous bases in DNA that pairs with adenine.

Guanine (G)

One of the four nitrogenous bases in DNA that pairs with cytosine.

Cytosine (C)

One of the four nitrogenous bases in DNA that pairs with guanine.

DNA Replication

The process of copying DNA during the S phase of interphase, resulting in two identical double-stranded DNA molecules.

Mitosis

The process of nuclear division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in the formation of gametes.

Sister Chromatids

Two identical copies of a chromosome joined at the centromere.

Chromatin

The material of which the chromosomes of organisms are composed, consisting of DNA and protein.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle during which the cell is not actively dividing and is preparing for cell division.

Prophase

The first stage of mitosis where chromosomes condense and become visible, and the nuclear membrane breaks down.

Metaphase

The stage of mitosis where chromosomes align along the equatorial plane of the cell.

Anaphase

The stage of mitosis where sister chromatids separate and move to opposite poles of the cell.

Telophase

The final stage of mitosis where chromosomes return to chromatin form and the nuclear membrane re-forms.

Cytokinesis

The process of division of the cytoplasm to form two separate daughter cells.

Haploid

Cells (like gametes) that contain half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

Diploid

Cells that contain two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

Crossing-over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during prophase I of meiosis, leading to genetic variation.

Centromere

The region of the chromosome where sister chromatids are joined.

Gametes

Reproductive cells (sperm and egg) produced by meiosis.