Meiosis (3.9)

Question 1

Describe the process of independent assortment

Answer 1

Homologous pairs randomly align into the middle of the nucleus so the combination of chromosomes that go into the daughter cells is random.

Question 2

Describe the process of crossing over

Answer 2

During meiosis 1 homologous pairs of chromosomes pair up and move closely together. From here, chromatids twist around each other, to the point they are called chiasmata. Fragements of the non sister chromatids swap over so genes are exchanged (recombination)

Question 3

Explain why independent assortment results in genetic variety

Answer 3

As the alignment of homologous pairs is completley random it means that daughter cells are limited to possessing only one type of chromosome therefore due to this random alignment it means that every daughter cell has the chance of possessing different combinations of chromosomes from one another causing genetic variety.

Question 4

Explain why crossing over results in genetic variety

Answer 4

Due to crossing over portions of alleles from different chromtids are exchanged causing there to be genetic variety as the chromatids in a homologous pair possess different allele combinations from one another