AP Biology Flashcards: Meiosis and Genetic Diversity
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
What is an aneuploid gamete?
An aneuploid gamete is a sex cell that results from nondisjunction and therefore has an incorrect number of chromosomes.
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What is an aneuploid gamete?
An aneuploid gamete is a sex cell that results from nondisjunction and therefore has an incorrect number of chromosomes.
How does the process of meiosis fundamentally contribute to the characteristics of a species?
The process of meiosis generates genetic diversity, which is a key driver of variation and evolution within a species.
If a cell completed meiosis but crossing over did not occur, how would the genetic diversity of the gametes be affected?
The genetic diversity among the gametes would be reduced because the exchange of genetic material between non-sister chromatids would not have happened.
Define crossing over.
Crossing over is the exchange of genetic material between non-sister chromatids that occurs during prophase I of meiosis.
What is the result of the correct separation of chromosomes during meiosis?
The correct separation of chromosomes in meiosis I and II ensures that each resulting gamete receives a haploid set of chromosomes.
What is nondisjunction?
Nondisjunction is the incorrect separation of chromosomes during meiosis I or II, which results in aneuploid gametes.
A gamete is found to have an abnormal number of chromosomes. What is the term for this type of gamete and what process caused it?
This is an aneuploid gamete, which is caused by nondisjunction (the incorrect separation of chromosomes) during meiosis.
Identify three processes related to sexual reproduction that increase genetic variation in eukaryotes.
Three processes that increase genetic variation are crossing over, the random assortment of chromosomes, and the subsequent fertilization of gametes.
During which phase of meiosis does crossing over occur, and what is its significance?
Crossing over occurs during prophase I of meiosis between non-sister chromatids, and its significance is to increase genetic diversity by exchanging genetic material.
What is the chromosomal state of a gamete after a successful meiosis?
After a successful meiosis with correct chromosome separation, a gamete receives a haploid set of chromosomes.