Meiosis

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What is meiosis?

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Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four haploid cells, each genetically distinct from the parent cell.

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What are haploid cells?

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Haploid cells are cells that contain one set of chromosomes (n). In humans, gametes (sperm and egg) are haploid.

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What are diploid cells?

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Diploid cells are cells that contain two sets of chromosomes (2n). In humans, somatic (body) cells are diploid.

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What is fertilization?

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Fertilization is the process where a sperm cell and an egg cell unite to form a zygote, restoring the diploid number of chromosomes.

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What is Trisomy 21?

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Trisomy 21, also known as Down Syndrome, is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra 21st chromosome.

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How many chromosomes do humans have in their body cells?

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Humans have 46 chromosomes in their body cells, organized into 23 pairs.

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What is the significance of meiosis in sexual reproduction?

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Meiosis is crucial for sexual reproduction as it produces gametes, ensuring genetic diversity through recombination and independent assortment.

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What is the difference between meiosis and mitosis?

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Mitosis results in two identical diploid cells, while meiosis results in four genetically diverse haploid cells.

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What is independent assortment?

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Independent assortment is the process during meiosis where chromosomes are distributed randomly into gametes, contributing to genetic variation.

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What is crossing over?

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