Quiz: Meiosis and Sexual Reproduction

Learning Objectives

• Explain how meiosis results in the transmission of chromosomes from one generation to the next.

• ·Describe similarities and/or differences between the phases and outcomes of mitosis and meiosis.

Essential Concepts

Meiosis is a process that ensures the formation of haploid gamete cells in sexually reproducing diploid organisms— a. Meiosis results in daughter cells with half the number of chromosomes of the parent cell. b. Meiosis involves two rounds of a sequential series of steps (meiosis I and meiosis II).

Mitosis and meiosis are similar in the way chromosomes segregate but differ in the number of cells produced and the genetic content of the daughter cells.

Separation of the homologous chromosomes in meiosis I ensures that each gamete receives a haploid (1n) set of chromosomes that comprises both maternal and paternal chromosomes.

During meiosis I, homologous chromatids exchange genetic material via a process called “crossing over” (recombination), which increases genetic diversity among the resultant gametes.

Sexual reproduction in eukaryotes involving gamete formation—including crossing over, the random assortment of chromosomes during meiosis, and subsequent fertilization of gametes—serves to increase variation.

DNA and RNA are carriers of genetic information.

Ribosomes are found in all forms of life.

Major features of the genetic code are shared by all modern living systems.

Core metabolic pathways are conserved across all currently recognized domains.