CROSSING OVER Meaning and
Definition
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Crossing over refers to the process of genetic recombination that occurs during meiosis. More specifically, it is the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes. During this process, corresponding regions of two non-sister chromatids are broken and rejoined. This results in the exchange of genetic information between these chromosomes, leading to the production of recombinant chromosomes.
Crossing over plays a vital role in increasing genetic diversity within a species. By exchanging genetic material, it creates new combinations of alleles, increasing the genetic variability in offspring. This process is particularly important during meiosis, as it ensures the production of gametes with unique genetic traits, which are necessary for the survival and adaptation of a species to changing environments.
The occurrence of crossing over is not random and does not happen throughout the entire length of chromosomes. It commonly occurs at specific sites known as chiasmata, where the homologous chromosomes are closely aligned. These points of contact facilitate the physical exchange of genetic material. The frequency and location of crossing over can vary between different organisms and between different pairs of chromosomes within the same organism.
Overall, crossing over is a fundamental process in genetics that promotes genetic diversity and plays a crucial role in evolution. It is of great importance in understanding inheritance patterns and the study of genetic diseases.
Common Misspellings for CROSSING OVER
- xrossing over
- vrossing over
- frossing over
- drossing over
- ceossing over
- cdossing over
- cfossing over
- ctossing over
- c5ossing over
- c4ossing over
- crissing over
- crkssing over
- crlssing over
- crpssing over
- cr0ssing over
- cr9ssing over
- croasing over
- crozsing over
- croxsing over
Etymology of CROSSING OVER
The etymology of the phrase "crossing over" can be traced back to the individual words that comprise it: "cross" and "over".
1. Cross:
The word "cross" originated from the Old English word "cruc" or "cros", which was derived from the Latin "crux". The Latin "crux" primarily referred to the structure of a cross. It eventually developed into the Middle English word "cros" and later became the modern English term "cross". The concept of crossing has been used metaphorically for various forms of movement from one place to another.
2. Over:
The word "over" comes from the Old English word "ofer", which evolved from the Germanic language family. "Ofer" referred to going or moving above, across, or beyond a particular position or boundary.
Similar spelling word for CROSSING OVER
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