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Questions and Answers
What is the main purpose of meiosis in sexual reproduction?
What is the main purpose of meiosis in sexual reproduction?
- To create identical diploid cells
- To protect genetic material from mutations
- To repair damaged cells in the body
- To produce haploid gametes for genetic diversity (correct)
During which phase of Meiosis I do homologous chromosomes separate?
During which phase of Meiosis I do homologous chromosomes separate?
- Metaphase I
- Telophase I
- Prophase I
- Anaphase I (correct)
What occurs during crossing over?
What occurs during crossing over?
- Two diploid cells form from one cell
- Tetrads align at the cell equator
- Sister chromatids are separated
- Homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material (correct)
What is the significance of independent assortment during meiosis?
What is the significance of independent assortment during meiosis?
What is the chromosomal state of the cells produced at the end of Meiosis II?
What is the chromosomal state of the cells produced at the end of Meiosis II?
Flashcards
Purpose of Meiosis
Purpose of Meiosis
To produce haploid gametes, ensuring each gamete carries half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell, which is essential for maintaining the correct chromosome number after fertilization and increasing genetic diversity.
Chromosome Separation
Chromosome Separation
Homologous chromosomes separate during Anaphase I. Each chromosome, consisting of two sister chromatids, moves to opposite poles of the cell, reducing the chromosome number from diploid to haploid.
Crossing Over
Crossing Over
Homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material, resulting in new combinations of genes on each chromosome. This process increases genetic diversity and is crucial for creating unique combinations of traits in offspring.
Significance of Independent Assortment
Significance of Independent Assortment
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Chromosomal State after Meiosis II
Chromosomal State after Meiosis II
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Study Notes
Definition of Meiosis
- Meiosis is a specialized type of cell division.
- Produces haploid gametes (sex cells) containing half the chromosomes of the original diploid parent cell.
- Crucial for sexual reproduction.
Stages of Meiosis
-
Meiosis I:
- Prophase I: Chromosomes condense, pair up via synapsis, forming tetrads.
- Potential for crossing over, exchanging genetic material, enhancing diversity.
- Metaphase I: Tetrads align along the cell's equatorial plane.
- Anaphase I: Homologous chromosomes are separated and move toward opposite poles.
- Telophase I: Cell divides, resulting in two new cells, each with a haploid number of chromosomes.
- Prophase I: Chromosomes condense, pair up via synapsis, forming tetrads.
-
Meiosis II:
- Prophase II: Chromosomes condense again for the second division.
- Metaphase II: Chromosomes align at the cell’s equator.
- Anaphase II: Sister chromatids are separated and pulled to opposite poles.
- Telophase II: Result is four haploid cells, each with a unique combination of genetic material.
Key Terms
- Diploid (2n): Cells containing two complete sets of chromosomes.
- Haploid (n): Cells with one complete set of chromosomes, characteristic of gametes.
- Homologous chromosomes: Chromosomal pairs, one from each parent, carrying the same genes but potentially featuring different alleles.
- Crossing over: The process during prophase I where homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material, contributing to genetic diversity.
Importance of Meiosis
- Essential for generating genetic variety in offspring through mechanisms like independent assortment and crossing over.
- Plays a vital role in evolutionary processes and adaptations through enhanced genetic diversity.
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