Introduction
Meiosis is the process by which sexually reproducing organisms create haploid gametes from diploid cells. This division is important because it allows for genetic diversity, which is essential for the survival of a species. The Amoeba Sisters have created a video recap of meiosis called “Meiosis: The Great Divide” that is informative and easy to understand. In this article, we will provide an answer key to the Amoeba Sisters’ video recap of meiosis.
Prophase I
Prophase I is the first stage of meiosis, and it is where homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic information through a process called crossing over. This process creates genetic diversity in the gametes. During prophase I, the Amoeba Sisters explain that homologous chromosomes are identified and paired up, and crossing over occurs. They also mention that the spindle fibers begin to form and the nuclear membrane breaks down.
Metaphase I
Metaphase I is the second stage of meiosis, and it is where the homologous chromosomes line up at the equator of the cell. The Amoeba Sisters explain that the spindle fibers attach to the chromosomes and that each homologous pair lines up randomly, which creates genetic diversity. They also mention that the orientation of the chromosomes is completely random and independent of one another.
Anaphase I
Anaphase I is the third stage of meiosis, and it is where the homologous chromosomes are pulled apart by the spindle fibers and move towards opposite poles of the cell. The Amoeba Sisters explain that the sister chromatids remain attached and that the homologous pairs are separated from one another. They also mention that each cell will receive one chromosome from each homologous pair, which creates even more genetic diversity.
Telophase I and Cytokinesis
Telophase I is the fourth stage of meiosis, and it is where the chromosomes arrive at the poles of the cell and begin to decondense. Cytokinesis then occurs, and the cell divides into two separate cells. The Amoeba Sisters explain that each cell produced in meiosis I is haploid and contains only one chromosome from each homologous pair. They also mention that each chromosome still consists of two sister chromatids.
Prophase II
Prophase II is the first stage of meiosis II, and it is where the chromosomes condense once again and the spindle fibers begin to form. The Amoeba Sisters explain that each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids and that the nuclear membrane has broken down once again.
Metaphase II
Metaphase II is the second stage of meiosis II, and it is where the chromosomes line up at the equator of the cell. The Amoeba Sisters explain that the spindle fibers attach to the centromere of each chromosome and that each chromosome lines up independently of one another.
Anaphase II
Anaphase II is the third stage of meiosis II, and it is where the sister chromatids are pulled apart by the spindle fibers and move towards opposite poles of the cell. The Amoeba Sisters explain that each cell will receive one copy of each chromosome, which is now a single chromatid. They also mention that each daughter cell is genetically unique.
Telophase II and Cytokinesis
Telophase II is the fourth and final stage of meiosis, and it is where the chromosomes arrive at the poles of the cell and begin to decondense. Cytokinesis then occurs, and the cell divides into two separate cells. The Amoeba Sisters explain that each cell produced in meiosis II is haploid and contains one copy of each chromosome. They also mention that each daughter cell is genetically unique.
Conclusion
The Amoeba Sisters’ video recap of meiosis is an excellent resource for learning about this important process. With this answer key, you can test your knowledge and ensure that you have a solid understanding of meiosis. Remember, meiosis is essential for genetic diversity, which is crucial for the survival of a species. So take the time to learn about this fascinating process!
