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Bio/Int. 2- Lesson 9
Meiosis
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Meiosis | the process of eukaryotic cells that reduces the number of chromosomes in half in newly-formed cells to then create reproductive cells (egg and sperm) |
| Gamete | a reproductive cell, specifically egg or sperm, considered haploid cells containing only one chromosome |
| Somatic cells | all other cells of an organism besides the gametes, are considered diploid cells containing pairs of chromosomes |
| Homologous Chromosomes | chromosomes that carry the same genes |
| Crossing Over | process by which homologous chromosomes (identical) exchange parts of their chromatids during prophase I thus increasing the genetic variation of the sperm/egg produced |
| Independent Assortment | a random distribution of homologous chromosomes during Metaphase I and II |