For Problems 25–30, consider a diploid cell that contains three pairs of chromosomes designated AA, BB, and CC. Each pair contains a maternal and a paternal member (e.g., A^m and A^p). Using these designations, demonstrate your understanding of mitosis and meiosis by drawing chromatid combinations as requested. Be sure to indicate when chromatids are paired as a result of replication and/or synapsis. You may wish to use a large piece of brown manila wrapping paper or a cut-up paper grocery bag for this project and to work in partnership with another student. We recommend cooperative learning as an efficacious way to develop the skills you will need for solving the problems presented throughout this text. During meiosis I, assuming no crossing over, what chromatid combination(s) will be present at the completion of prophase I? Draw all possible alignments of chromatids as migration begins during early anaphase.

Key Concepts

Mitosis

Mitosis is the process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells, each with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell. It involves several stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. During prophase, chromosomes condense and become visible, and the nuclear envelope breaks down. Mitosis is crucial for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction in organisms.

Meiosis

Meiosis is a specialized form of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four genetically diverse gametes. It consists of two rounds of division: meiosis I and meiosis II. During meiosis I, homologous chromosomes pair and can undergo crossing over, although the question specifies no crossing over. This process is essential for sexual reproduction and genetic diversity.

Chromatid Pairing and Synapsis

Chromatid pairing occurs when replicated chromosomes align closely during cell division. In meiosis I, synapsis refers to the pairing of homologous chromosomes, forming structures called tetrads. This alignment is crucial for the proper segregation of chromosomes. Understanding these concepts helps visualize the chromatid combinations present during prophase I and the subsequent movements during anaphase.