Meiosis

• What process forms gametes in sexual reproduction?

  Meiosis
• What are gametes sometimes called?

  Sex cells
• How much genetic material do gametes contain?

  Half the genetic material
• What do we call cells that contain half the genetic material?

  Haploid cells
• What happens when two gametes combine?

  They form a normal diploid cell
• What type of cells do gametes form when combined?

  Diploid cells
• What is the first step in meiosis?

  Replicate all of the cell's DNA
• What shape do chromosomes take after DNA replication in meiosis?

  X shape
• How many types of chromosomes do humans have?

  23 different types
• How many individual chromosomes does each human cell have?

  46 individual chromosomes
• What are maternal chromosomes?

  Chromosomes from the mother
• What are paternal chromosomes?

  Chromosomes from the father
• What happens to chromosome pairs during meiosis?

  They line up randomly along the center
• Why is the left-to-right order of chromosomes important in meiosis?

  It leads to genetic variation
• What is the result of the first division in meiosis?

  Two cells with different DNA combinations
• What happens during the second division of meiosis?

  Chromosome arms are pulled apart
• How many cells are produced at the end of meiosis?

  Four cells
• Why are gametes genetically unique?

  Due to tiny changes during meiosis
• What do male gametes develop into?

  Sperm cells
• What do female gametes develop into?

  Egg cells
• What forms when a sperm and egg fuse during fertilization?

  A diploid cell
• What process does a diploid cell undergo after fertilization?

  Mitosis
• What are the steps of meiosis?

  1. DNA replication
  2. First division: chromosome pairs separate
  3. Second division: chromosome arms separate
  4. Result: four genetically unique gametes
• What is the significance of genetic variation in meiosis?

  • Ensures diversity in offspring
  • Aids in evolution and adaptation
  • Reduces the risk of genetic disorders