Meiosis

Question 1

What is meiosis?

Answer 1

• The process by which gametes (sex cells) are produced

Question 2

What is a haploid (example) and a diploid (example)?

Answer 2

• A haploid is a cell containing half the chromosomes of a normal cell (23 chromosomes). A gamete is a haploid
• A diploid contains a full 46 chromosomes. A normal cell is a diploid

Question 3

Explain stage 1 of meiosis

Answer 3

• DNA replication
• Maternal and paternal chromosomes replicate
• Each chromosome forms an “X” (each arm is 1 chromosome. Both arms are the same)

Question 4

Explain stage 2 of meiosis

Answer 4

• Division 1
• Chromsomes line up in the middle. There are 2 “X’s” per row (4 chromsomes per row)
• Lining up is random (could be maternal or paternal)
• Chromsomes pull apart and cell divides into two
• Each new cell has 46 chromosomes

Question 5

Explain stage 3 of meiosis

Answer 5

• Division 2
• Chromosomes line up in centre
• Each arm of “X” is pulled apart and cell splits
• Each new cell has 23 chromosomes and is genetically unique
• Each new cell develops into a gamete

Question 6

How many cells are produced by meiosis?

Answer 6

• 4 new cells
• 2 divisions