About this Flash Card Set
14 Cards
by olivia_bennett
Master how cells divide, from the phases of mitosis to why meiosis creates genetic variety. A clear, student-friendly review of cell division.
Front
What is mitosis, and what is it for?
Back
Cell division for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction. It produces two genetically identical diploid daughter cells from one parent cell.
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Front
What is meiosis, and what is it for?
Back
Cell division that makes gametes (sex cells) for sexual reproduction. It produces four genetically varied haploid cells from one parent cell.
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Front
What is interphase?
Back
The stage before division when a cell grows, carries out its functions, and copies its DNA so each new cell will get a full set. It is not part of mitosis itself.
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Front
What is a chromosome?
Back
A tightly coiled, organized structure of DNA and protein that carries genetic information. Humans have 46 chromosomes (23 pairs).
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Front
What is a chromatid?
Back
One of the two identical halves of a duplicated chromosome. Sister chromatids are joined together and separate during cell division.
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Front
What is a centromere?
Back
The region that holds sister chromatids together and where spindle fibers attach to pull them apart during division.
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Front
What happens during prophase?
Back
Chromosomes condense and become visible, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and spindle fibers begin to form.
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Front
What happens during metaphase?
Back
Chromosomes line up single-file along the middle (the metaphase plate) of the cell. Remember: Metaphase = Middle.
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What happens during anaphase?
Back
Sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite ends of the cell. Remember: Anaphase = Apart.
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Front
What happens during telophase?
Back
Chromosomes reach the poles, uncoil, and new nuclear envelopes form, creating two separate nuclei.
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Front
What is cytokinesis?
Back
The division of the cytoplasm that physically splits one cell into two separate daughter cells. It follows telophase.
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Front
Diploid vs. haploid — what is the difference?
Back
Diploid (2n) cells have two full sets of chromosomes (like body cells, 46 in humans). Haploid (n) cells have one set (like gametes, 23 in humans).
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Front
What is a gamete?
Back
A haploid sex cell — a sperm or egg. When two gametes join in fertilization, they form a diploid cell with a full chromosome set.
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Front
What is the key difference between mitosis and meiosis?
Back
Mitosis makes 2 identical diploid cells for growth and repair. Meiosis makes 4 genetically varied haploid gametes for reproduction. Variation comes from crossing over and independent assortment.
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