MEIOSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Meiosis is a type of cellular division that occurs in sexually reproducing organisms to produce gametes, which are specialized cells responsible for sexual reproduction. It involves two consecutive divisions, referred to as meiosis I and meiosis II, resulting in the formation of four haploid cells, each containing half the number of chromosomes found in the parent cell. The process of meiosis is fundamental to the preservation of genetic diversity and the maintenance of proper chromosome number in sexually reproducing organisms.
During meiosis I, homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material through a process known as genetic recombination or crossing over, contributing to genetic variation. The paired chromosomes then separate, resulting in two cells. These cells then proceed to meiosis II, where the sister chromatids separate, resulting in four genetically unique haploid cells. The processes of genetic recombination, independent assortment, and segregation of chromosomes during meiosis contribute to the extensive genetic variation observed in individual offspring.
Meiosis is a critical process in sexual reproduction as it ensures the correct reduction of chromosome number in gametes, preventing the doubling of chromosomes in each new generation. Through this cellular division, the fusion of male and female gametes with haploid genomes leads to the formation of a diploid zygote, eventually developing into a new organism with a unique combination of genetic traits inherited from both parents.
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A rhetorical figure, a species of hyperbole, representing a thing less than it is.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of MEIOSIS
The word "meiosis" comes from the Ancient Greek word "meiosis" (μείωσις), which means "a lessening" or "a decrease". The term was first used in biology by German scientist J.B.S. Haldane in the early 20th century to describe the process of cell division that leads to the production of sex cells (gametes) with reduced genetic material. The use of the term "meiosis" to describe this specific cellular process reflects the concept of reduction in both the genetic content and the number of chromosomes in the resulting cells.
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