Key vocabulary for meiosis:

1. Meiosis: Cell division process that produces gametes with half the number of chromosomes.

2. Chromosome: Thread-like structure in the cell nucleus that carries genetic information.

3. Homologous chromosomes: Pair of chromosomes with the same genes at the same loci.

4. Diploid: Cells with two sets of chromosomes (2n).

5. Haploid: Cells with one set of chromosomes (n).

6. Crossing over: Exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

7. Prophase I: First stage of meiosis I where chromosomes condense and crossing over occurs.

8. Metaphase I: Stage of meiosis I where homologous chromosomes line up at the metaphase plate.

9. Anaphase I: Stage of meiosis I where homologous chromosomes separate and move to opposite poles.

10. Telophase I: Stage of meiosis I where two haploid cells are formed.

11. Meiosis II: Second round of cell division in meiosis, similar to mitosis but with half the number of chromosomes.

12. Genetic variation: Diversity in offspring due to independent assortment and crossing over during meiosis.

• Genetic variation: Crossing over, independent assortment, random fertilization

• Reduction division: Diploid to haploid cells

• Phases: Prophase I, Metaphase I, Anaphase I, Telophase I, Prophase II, Metaphase II, Anaphase II, Telophase II

• Purpose: Produce gametes for sexual reproduction

• Two divisions: Meiosis I and Meiosis II

• Mitosis:

  • Type of cell division for growth and repair.

  • Results in two identical diploid cells.

  • One division phase.

• Meiosis:

  • Type of cell division for gamete formation.

  • Results in four non-identical haploid cells.

  • Two division phases.

  Example:

  During the process of cell division, also known as meiosis, the parent cell first duplicates its genetic material before undergoing two rounds of division. This intricate process results in the formation of four daughter cells, each containing half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell. Meiosis is a crucial step in sexual reproduction, as it ensures genetic diversity in offspring by shuffling and recombining genetic material. The formation of gametes, such as sperm and egg cells, relies on meiosis to produce cells with the correct number of chromosomes. This reduction in chromosome number is essential for successful fertilization and the formation of a genetically unique individual. Overall, meiosis plays a vital role in the continuity of species by enabling the creation of genetically diverse offspring.