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VICBiologyQuick questions
Unit 4: How does life change and respond to challenges over time?
Quick questions on Genetic diversity through meiosis and fertilisation (independent assortment, crossing over): VCE Biology Unit 4
5short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
What is independent assortment (metaphase I of meiosis)?Show answer
During metaphase I, homologous chromosome pairs (bivalents) line up at the cell equator. The orientation of each bivalent is random and independent of every other pair. Either homologue can face either pole.
What is crossing over (prophase I of meiosis)?Show answer
During prophase I, homologous chromosomes pair tightly along their length (synapsis), forming bivalents or tetrads. Non-sister chromatids exchange segments at points called chiasmata.
What is q1?Show answer
Identify four sources of genetic diversity in a sexually reproducing population. [4 marks]
What is q2?Show answer
A diploid plant has 5 pairs of chromosomes. (a) Calculate the number of distinct gametes possible from independent assortment alone. (b) Estimate the total possible offspring from random fertilisation of two parents both contributing 2 to the power 5 distinct gamete types.
What is q3?Show answer
Refer to the Tasmanian devil. (a) Define a population bottleneck. (b) Explain why recombination cannot quickly restore lost allelic diversity.
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