Chapter 12

Question 1

Asexual reproduction

Answer 1

Reproduction that involves only one parent and produces offspring that are genetically identical to the parent.

Question 2

Sexual reproduction

Answer 2

Reproduction that involves two parents and the combination of their genetic material to produce offspring with genetic variation.

Question 3

Homologous chromosome

Answer 3

Chromosomes that are similar in shape, size, and genetic content, with one coming from each parent.

Question 4

Allele

Answer 4

Different forms of a gene that can exist for a particular trait (e.g., blue or brown eyes).

Question 5

Somatic

Answer 5

Cells that are not reproductive cells, such as skin or muscle cells.

Question 6

Haploid

Answer 6

A cell that contains one set of chromosomes (half the number of chromosomes found in somatic cells).

Question 7

Gamete

Answer 7

A reproductive cell (sperm or egg) that carries half the genetic information required to form a new organism.

Question 8

Ova

Answer 8

The female reproductive cell, also known as an egg.

Question 9

Spermatozoa

Answer 9

The male reproductive cells, also known as sperm.

Question 10

Meiosis

Answer 10

A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating four non-identical haploid cells (gametes).

Question 11

Fertilization

Answer 11

The process where a sperm cell and an egg cell unite to form a zygote.

Question 12

Zygote

Answer 12

The fertilized egg that forms after the sperm and egg combine, containing a full set of chromosomes.

Question 13

Crossing over

Answer 13

The process during meiosis where homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material, increasing genetic diversity.