CB3A Meiosis Flashcards
What is sexual reproduction
Type of reproduction
Involves the production of gametes by meiosis
A gamete from each parent fuses to form a zygote
Genetic information from each gamete is mixed so the resulting zygote in unique
What are gametes
Sex cells (sperm cells, egg cells)
Haploid (Half the number of chromosomes)
What is meiosis
Form a cell division involved in the formation of gametes
Chromosome number is halved
Involves two divisions
What must occur prior to meiosis
Interphase
What happens during the first stage of meiosis
Chromosome pairs line up along the cell equator
The pair of chromosomes are separated and move to opposite pole of the cell ( the side which each chromosome is pulled is random, creating variation)
Chromosome number is halved
What happens during the second stage of meiosis
Chromosomes line up along the cell equator
The chromatids are separated and move to opposite poles of the cell
Four unique haploid gametes are produced
Why is meiosis important for sexual reproduction?
It increases genetic variation
It ensures that the resultant zygote is diploid
