Meiosis Flashcard

Front

What is meiosis?

Back

Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four genetically diverse gametes. It is essential for sexual reproduction.

Front

How many chromosomes do humans have in their body cells?

Back

Humans have 46 chromosomes in their body cells.

Front

What does it mean to be haploid?

Back

Haploid means having one complete set of chromosomes, which is half the diploid number.

Front

What is the significance of crossing over in meiosis?

Back

Crossing over is the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis, leading to genetic diversity in gametes.

Front

What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis?

Back

Mitosis results in two identical daughter cells, while meiosis results in four genetically diverse gametes.

Front

Define diploid.

Back

Diploid refers to a cell that contains two complete sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

Front

What is a gamete?

Back

A gamete is a reproductive cell (sperm or egg) that carries half the genetic information of an organism.

Front

What is reduction division?

Back

Reduction division is the first division in meiosis where the chromosome number is halved, producing haploid cells.

Front

What is the role of spindle fibers in meiosis?

Back

Spindle fibers help separate chromosomes during cell division, ensuring that each daughter cell receives the correct number of chromosomes.

Front

What happens during prophase I of meiosis?

Back

During prophase I, homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange segments (crossing over), and the nuclear envelope begins to break down.