Meiosis

Front

What is meiosis?

Back

Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four genetically diverse gametes (sperm or eggs).

Front

What is the main purpose of meiosis?

Back

The main purpose of meiosis is to produce gametes for sexual reproduction, ensuring genetic diversity through recombination and independent assortment.

Front

What are the two main stages of meiosis?

Back

The two main stages of meiosis are Meiosis I and Meiosis II.

Front

What happens during Prophase I of meiosis?

Back

During Prophase I, homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material through a process called crossing over.

Front

What is the difference between oogenesis and spermatogenesis?

Back

Oogenesis is the formation of eggs in females, resulting in one viable egg, while spermatogenesis is the formation of sperm in males, resulting in four viable sperm.

Front

When does spermatogenesis begin?

Back

Spermatogenesis begins at puberty and continues throughout a male's life.

Front

When does oogenesis begin?

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Oogenesis begins before birth, with all primary oocytes being formed by the time of birth.

Front

What is a centromere?

Back

A centromere is the region of a chromosome where the two sister chromatids are joined together and where the spindle fibers attach during cell division.

Front

What is a chromosome?

Back

A chromosome is a structure made of DNA and protein that contains genetic information; humans have 46 chromosomes in each somatic cell.

Front

What is the significance of crossing over?

Back

Crossing over increases genetic variation by allowing the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during Prophase I.