Human Genetic Diversity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Human Genetic Diversity - Essay Example There are several stages of Meiosis. First one is prophase where homologous chromosomes start pairing and form synapses. Second stage is Metaphase where these pairs are situated on Metaphase plate. There are equal chances of receiving mother's or father's homologue for each chromosome. Independent assortment is a process where 2n daughter cells (combinations) is generated having maternal and paternal homologous pairs of chromosomes, where n being haploid number of the organism. In the case of humans, the haploid number (n) in the formula is 23. Thus, there is 223 (about 8 million) number of combination of maternal and paternal chromosomes possible. Crossing over is the process which happens in previous stage of prophase. In this process homologous chromosomes are paired together loosely along their length, resulting in generation of point of contact which is used for exchange of genetic information. This produces various combinations of maternal and paternal genes. Number of cross over events depends on size of chromosomes and position of their centromeres. In case of humans it is one to three on an average Fertilization is the process in which different gametes fuse together and form new organism of same spices.