Meiosis

• What is the purpose of meiosis?

  To produce 4 genetically different haploid cells
• In what type of cells does meiosis occur?

  In gamete-producing cells
• What happens during Prophase I?

  Chromosomes condense, homologous chromosomes pair up
• What is a bivalent?

  A pair of homologous chromosomes joined together
• What is crossing over and when does it happen?

  Exchange of genetic material during Prophase I
• What happens in Metaphase I?

  Homologous pairs line up along the equator
• What is independent assortment?

  Random alignment of homologous pairs during Metaphase I
• What separates in Anaphase I?

  Homologous chromosomes are pulled to opposite poles
• After Telophase I and cytokinesis, what is the result?

  Two haploid cells with half the chromosome number
• What happens in Metaphase II?

  Chromosomes line up individually along the equator
• What separates in Anaphase II?

  Sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles
• What is the final result of meiosis?

  Four genetically different haploid gametes
• What are the two processes during meiosis that increase genetic variation?

  • Crossing over (Prophase I)
  • Independent assortment (Metaphase I & II)