How Do You Spell ZYGONEMA?

Pronunciation: [zˈa͡ɪɡənəmə] (IPA)

The word "zygonema" is pronounced /zaɪɡoʊˈniːmə/ and refers to a stage in meiosis when homologous chromosomes pair up. The spelling is derived from the Greek words "zygón" meaning "yoke" or "pair" and "nema" meaning "thread." The letter "y" represents the sound /aɪ/, the letter "g" represents the sound /ɡ/ and the letter "o" represents the sound /oʊ/. The combination of these sounds creates the unique pronunciation of "zygonema" and its spelling.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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ZYGONEMA Meaning and Definition

  1. Zygonema is a term used in genetics and biology to describe a specific stage in the process of meiosis, which is a type of cell division that occurs during the formation of gametes (reproductive cells) in sexually reproducing organisms. It is derived from the Greek words "zygon" meaning pair, and "nema" meaning thread, signifying the pairing of homologous chromosomes in a linear fashion.

    During zygonema, which generally occurs in the first stage of meiosis, pairs of homologous chromosomes align and become closely associated with one another. This alignment is facilitated by the formation of structures known as synaptonemal complexes, which physically connect the homologous chromosomes. These structures enable the exchange of genetic material between non-sister chromatids of the paired chromosomes, through a process called crossing over. The formation of synaptonemal complexes and the occurrence of crossing over during zygonema are vital for genetic recombination, which ensures genetic variation in offspring.

    The pairing and alignment of homologous chromosomes during zygonema allow for the accurate segregation of chromosomes during subsequent stages of meiosis, ensuring the correct distribution of genetic material among the resulting gametes. Zygonema is followed by the subsequent stages of meiosis, such as pachynema, diplonema, and diakinesis, each with their own distinct characteristics and processes. Ultimately, zygonema plays a crucial role in the proper functioning and successful completion of meiosis, which is essential for sexual reproduction and genetic diversity in various organisms.

Common Misspellings for ZYGONEMA

Etymology of ZYGONEMA

The word "zygonema" is derived from the combination of two Greek words, "zygo" meaning "yoke" and "nema" meaning "thread". "Zygo" is related to the Greek word "zeugos" which means "pair", and "nema" is derived from "nemein" which means "to spin or twist". The term "zygonema" is primarily used in biology to refer to a stage in meiosis, the process of cell division that produces gametes (sex cells). In this stage, the paired homologous chromosomes align and become tightly linked, resembling a yoked or paired appearance.