All You Wanted to Know About Meiosis But Were Afraid To Ask Because You Were Asleep In Class

An informative guide on the reproduction of gametes

Before we get started, this web site is generally for those who already have a good understanding of mitosis. If you still don't understand it, go hit the textbooks.

The phases of meiosis (keep reading if you're confused):

Meiosis I:
Prophase I
Metaphase I
Anaphase I
Telophase I

Meiosis II:
Prophase II
Metaphase II
Anaphase II
Telophase II

Scientifically speaking...

What is meiosis?

Meiosis is the process by which gametes, or sex cells, are produced. As opposed to mitotic division where a preexisting cell divides into two genetically identical diploid cells, meiosis forms haploid sperm and eggs, each of which are genetically different. When a sperm cell unites with an egg, an embryo is formed which will later fully develop into the organism. Meiosis is a very important process because of many reasons. First, because it forms haploid cells, the organism will have the same number of chromosomes. If meiosis formed diploid cells, then in each generation born the chromosome number would double, which would ensure extinction in the organism. Also, meiosis naturally gives variation to the offspring because of the Law of Independant Assortment. There is also a very important process during meiosis called crossing-over which I discuss on the links to the left.

What the heck is the difference between Meiosis I and Meiosis II?

The phases of Meiosis I are discussed on the links to the left. If you haven't already looked, go ahead and read through them.

Thanks for reading! If you have any questions at all, please send them to me for future improvements.

E-mail me at havok@paclink.net

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This many people have actually came here. What a waste of time. Meiosis power!