4.3 MUTATIONS AND MEOSIS

Question 1

Explain how the orientation of homologous chromosomes during metaphase I of meiosis contributes to greater variation in gametes.

Answer 1

The random alignment of the homologous pairs at the metaphase phase ensures the random destination of chromosomes in the daughter cells

Question 2

Which three processes lead to variation among offspring that have the same two parents?

Answer 2

Fertilization, crossing over, random chromosome assortment

Question 3

Reproductive cells in most species are different from the cells that make up the rest of the organism.

What are the “body” cells called and how are they different from the reproductive cells?

Answer 3

Body cells are called somatic cells and have double the number of the chromosomes found in reproductive cells

Question 4

Spores are structures produced by some plants and all fungi. Which is true about them?

Answer 4

Spores are haploid cells formed in asexual reproduction and so are not produced by meosis

Question 5

In prophase I, the homologous chromosomes are paired up and linked together. What binds the chromosomes together and maintains their alignment?

Answer 5

Tetrads

Question 6

One of the ways that sexual reproduction enhances the diversity of offspring from the same parents is through a process called crossing over.

What entities does this occur between during prophase I?

Answer 6

Tetrads

Question 7

There are three sources of genetic variation in sexual reproduction. Which is not considered random?

Answer 7

Tetrad alignment and meotic spindle

Question 8

What is a disadvantage of sexual reproduction over asexual forms of reproduction?

Answer 8

Half the population is capable of carrying offspring