Chapter 13 Flashcards
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What is the significance of crossing over during meiosis?
Crossing over during prophase I of meiosis increases genetic diversity by exchanging segments of chromatids between homologous chromosomes, creating recombinant chromosomes.
How does independent assortment contribute to genetic variation?
Independent assortment during meiosis I ensures that each pair of homologous chromosomes segregates independently, leading to a variety of possible combinations of maternal and paternal chromosomes in gametes.
What is the role of random fertilization in genetic variation?
Random fertilization further increases genetic diversity by combining the genetic material from two different gametes, resulting in a vast number of possible zygote combinations.
How many possible diploid combinations can result from independent assortment alone in humans?
Independent assortment alone can result in approximately 70 trillion (70 × 10^12) different diploid combinations in humans.
What is the average number of crossover events per chromosome pair in humans?
The average number of crossover events per chromosome pair in humans is one to three.
How does crossing over affect the genetic diversity of daughter cells?
Crossing over generates combinations of genes that are different from those present in the original chromosomes, enhancing the genetic diversity of daughter cells.
What is the significance of genetic variation for evolution?
Genetic variation provides the raw material for natural selection, shaping adaptation and survival in changing environments.
How do mutations contribute to genetic diversity?
Mutations introduce new alleles into a population, increasing genetic diversity and providing new traits that may be beneficial for survival.
What is the role of sexual reproduction in generating genetic diversity?
Sexual reproduction generates genetic diversity through meiosis (independent assortment and crossing over) and random fertilization, creating unique combinations of alleles in offspring.
How does the bdelloid rotifer generate genetic variation without sexual reproduction?
The bdelloid rotifer generates genetic variation by incorporating DNA from different species during dry spells when the organisms are in a dormant state.
What is the significance of cytogenetic maps in genetic research?
Cytogenetic maps provide a visual representation of chromosomal features observed under a microscope, aiding in the study of genetic variation and chromosomal abnormalities.
How does whole-genome sequencing contribute to genetic research?
Whole-genome sequencing provides nucleotide-level details, confirming the linear order of genes from linkage maps and offering accurate physical distances between genes.
What are the limitations of linkage maps in genetic research?
Linkage maps may not always correspond directly to physical distances due to variation in crossing over frequency along chromosomes and genetic unlinking for genes far apart.
How does genetic variation arise in sexually reproducing organisms?
Genetic variation arises primarily due to meiosis (independent assortment and crossing over) and random fertilization, with mutations also contributing to diversity.
What is the significance of independent assortment in genetic diversity?
Independent assortment increases genetic diversity by ensuring that each pair of homologous chromosomes segregates independently during meiosis I.