Cell Division: Mitosis and Meiosis Flashcards

Grade 10 · Science · Flashcards

Master the vocabulary, phases, and differences between mitosis and meiosis.

Flashcards

Mitosis: Cell division yielding 2 genetically identical diploid daughter cells; used for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction.
Meiosis: Two-stage cell division yielding 4 genetically unique haploid gametes; used for sexual reproduction.
Diploid (2n): Cell with two full sets of chromosomes (one from each parent). Human body cells are 2n = 46.
Haploid (n): Cell with one set of chromosomes. Human gametes are n = 23.
Gamete: A sex cell (sperm or egg) produced by meiosis; haploid so that fertilization restores the diploid number.
Crossing over: Exchange of DNA segments between homologous chromosomes during Prophase I of meiosis; creates genetic diversity.
Independent assortment: Random orientation of homologous chromosome pairs at Metaphase I, producing varied chromosome combinations in gametes.
Sister chromatids: Two identical chromosome copies joined at the centromere after DNA replication; separated during anaphase.
Homologous chromosomes: Matching chromosome pairs carrying the same genes; one comes from each parent.
Cytokinesis: Division of the cytoplasm following nuclear division, producing two separate daughter cells.
Cell cycle checkpoints: Control points where regulatory proteins verify the cell is ready to proceed; failure can lead to cancer.
Fertilization: Fusion of sperm (n) and egg (n) to form a diploid zygote (2n); begins development of a new organism.