Genetic Variation - chuck test 1 Flashcards
Chiasma
The point in which paired chromosomes contact during crossing over
Crossing over
Two homologous chromosomes pair up, creating a homologous pair of chromosomes. The non-sister chromatids swap alleles. Resulting in new combinations of alleles, meaning there is genetic variation.
Diploid Cell
A cell that contains a complete set of chromosomes (e.g in humans 46 chromosomes)
Haploid Cell
A cell that contains half as many chromosomes as a diploid cell (e.g in humans 23 chromosomes)
Gamete
A reproductive cell having haploid number of chromosomes (e.g in females egg and males sperm)
Independent Assortment
when homologous chromosomes line up in the equator (centre) of the cell, independently of other pairs. Resulting in a randomised line. They are then separated in segreation which resultings in genetic variation as each gamaete receives one chromosomes, meaning there will be different allees in each gamete.
locus
a location a given gene occupies on a chromosome
Meiosis
A type of cell division in sexually reproducing organisms that process gametes and reduces the number of chromosomes in the reproductive cells from diploid to haploid.
Segregation
The separation of paired alleles of (pairs of) homologous chromosomes. Resulting in each gamete receiving one allele or chromosome.
Mutation
A permanent change to the base sequence of DNA - which may result in a new allele. This causes genetic variation as if the mutation occurs in a gamete it may be passed on to offspring if the gamete is fertilised.
Mutagen
An agent that can create a mutation e.g chemicals, radiation etc