Genetics and Inheritance: Gametes and Reproduction

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to gametes, reproduction, and related genetic concepts.

Haploid Cells (n)

Gametes/sex cells (eggs and sperm) with half the DNA required to function, containing only one chromosome per pair.

Diploid Cells (2n)

Somatic cells (body cells) with all the DNA required to function, containing two chromosomes per pair.

Gametogenesis

The process of gamete formation that occurs in the reproductive organs (gonads) of males and females.

Spermatogenesis

Gamete production in males, occurring within the seminiferous tubules of the testes.

Oogenesis

Gamete production in females, occurring in the ovaries.

Sperm Structure

The head region contains a haploid nucleus, acrosome cap, and paired centrioles; the mid-piece contains mitochondria; and the tail (flagellum) provides movement.

Egg Structure

Surrounded by the zona pellucida (barrier to sperm entry) and the corona radiata (provides support and nourishment).

Fertilization

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

Non-Disjunction

The chromosomes fail to separate correctly during cell division, resulting in gametes with an extra or missing chromosome, occurring during Anaphase of meiosis.

Down Syndrome

Individuals have three copies of chromosome 21 (trisomy 21) due to non-disjunction during gamete formation.

Placenta

The life