Term | Definition |
Mitosis | Is a part of the cell cycle in which chromosomes in a cell nucleus are separated into two identical sets of chromosomes, and each set ends up in its own nucleus. |
Cytokinesis | Is the physical process of cell division, which divides the cytoplasm of a parental cell into two daughter cells. |
Replication | The process of copying a double-stranded DNA molecule. |
Cell cycle | Is the series of events that take place in a cell leading to its division and duplication of its DNA (DNA replication) to produce two daughter cells. |
Chromosomes | A threadlike structure of nucleic acids and protein found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes. |
Chromatid | Is one copy of a newly copied chromosome which is still joined to the other copy by a single centro mere. Before replication, one chromosome is composed of one DNA molecule. |
Centromere | The point on a chromosome by which it is attached to a spindle fiber during cell division. |
Chromatin | The material of which the chromosomes of organisms other than bacteria (i.e., Eukaryotas) are composed. |
Diploid | Containing two complete sets of chromosomes, one from each parent. |
Interphase | The resting phase between successive mitotic divisions of a cell, or between the first and second divisions of meiosis. |
Crossing over | The exchange of genes between homologous chromosomes, resulting in a mixture of parental characteristics in offspring. |
Tetrad | A group or set of four. |
Synapse | A junction between two nerve cells, consisting of a minute gap across which impulses pass by diffusion of a neurotransmitter. |
Polar bodies | Each of the small cells that bud off from an oocyte at the two meiotic divisions and do not develop into ova. |
Gametogenesis | The process in which cells undergo meiosis to form gametes. |
Gonad | An organ that produces gametes; a testis or ovary. |
Gamete | A mature haploid male or female germ cell that is able to unite with another of the opposite sex in sexual reproduction to form a zygote. |
Ovum | A mature female reproductive cell, especially of a human or other animal, that can divide to give rise to an embryo usually only after fertilization by a male cell. |
Sperm | Is the male "gamete" or sex cell. It combines with the female "gamete," called an ovum, to form a zygote. |
Haploid | Having a single set of unpaired chromosomes. |