Key terms Definitions

Chromosomes The threadlike structures in the nucleus that carry genetic info
Chromatid Two longitudinal strands
Metacentric A chromosome that has a centrally placed centromere
Sex In humans the X and Y chromosomes involved in cell determination
Chromosomes
Anaphase A stage in mitosis during which the centromeres split and the daughter chromosomes
begin to separate
Haploid The condition in which each chromosome is represented once in an unpaired condition
Chromatin The component material of chromosomes visible as clumps or threads in nuclei under a
microscope
Sister Two chromatids joined by a common centromere. Each chromatid carries identical
Chromatids information.
Acrocentric A chromosome in which the centromere is located quite near one end of the chromosome.
Cell cycle The sequence of events that takes place between successive mitotic divisions
Telophase The last stage of mitosis during which division of the cytoplasm occurs, the chromosomes
of the daughter cells disperse, and the nucleus reforms.
P-short arm A short arm of the chromosome
Homologues Members of a chromosomal pair
Centromere A region of a chromosome to which fibers attwtch during cell division. The location of a
centromere gives a chromosome its characteristic shape
Sub metacentric A chromosome whose centromere is placed very close to, but not at, one end
Interphase The period of time in cell cycle between mitotic divisions
Cytokinesis The process of cytoplasmic division that accompanies cell division
Q-long arm The long arm of the chromosome
Diploid The condition in which each chromosome is represented twice as a member of a
homologous pair
Autosomes Chromosomes other than sex cells
Mitosis Form of cell division that produces two cells each of which has the same complement of
chromosomes as the parent cell
Prophase A stage in mitosis during which the chromosomes become visible and split longitudinally
except at the centromere
G1, S, G2 Three sub phases of interphase
G1- intense cytoplasmic growth
S- DNA synthesis/ replication
G2- second period of growth, cell is preparing itself for mitosis (mitochondria divide and
spindle fibers r made)