What is meant by homologous chromosomes?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the definition and explanation of the term 'homologous chromosomes', which refers to pairs of chromosomes in a diploid organism that are similar in shape, size, and genetic content, with one chromosome coming from each parent.
Answer
Pairs of chromosomes with similar genes in the same order but possibly different alleles, same length, and centromere position.
Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes in a diploid organism that have similar genes in the same order but may carry different alleles. They are of the same length and have the same centromere position.
Answer for screen readers
Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes in a diploid organism that have similar genes in the same order but may carry different alleles. They are of the same length and have the same centromere position.
More Information
Homologous chromosomes include one chromosome from each parent and come together during meiosis, playing a critical role in genetic diversity.
Tips
A common mistake is to assume homologous chromosomes are identical; they are similar but can carry different versions (alleles) of the same genes.
Sources
- Homologous chromosomes - Genomics Education Programme - genomicseducation.hee.nhs.uk
- Homologous chromosome - Definition and Examples - Biology Online - biologyonline.com
- Define homologous chromosomes? - BYJU'S - byjus.com
