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Glite Dictionary
zygotene

zygotene

9.9
A stage in the cell division that makes sex cells when matching chromosomes pair closely
  • noun
  • Specialized
: zigoteno
  • During zygotene, the homologous chromosomes start to align closely side by side.

Examples

  • Scientists observed synapsis occurring in the zygotene stage of meiosis.

  • Crossing over is prepared as chromosomes pair during zygotene in many organisms.

  • During zygotene, chromosomes start to pair.

  • The zygotene stage is crucial for genetic diversity.

  • During zygotene, homologous chromosomes pair closely together to prepare for genetic recombination.

  • In the zygotene phase of meiosis, chromosomes begin their alignment, facilitating the exchange of genetic material.

  • The process of synapsis initiates during zygotene, where pairs of homologous chromosomes come together.

Synonyms

synapsis
vszygotene
  • Specialized
1 9.9

The pairing of matching chromosomes side by side during early cell division that makes eggs or sperm

is the defined prophase stage when homolog pairing begins in meiosis

Surface Forms

zygotene singular
zygotenes plural

Morphology

zygotene = zygote (opaque) = zygot + ene

The formation uses a specialized Greek combining form and a technical stage suffix; knowing 'zygote' does not allow a learner to infer this specific meiotic stage.

Etymology

The word zygotene begins with the Greek root zygo- meaning 'yoke' or 'pair', the same root as zygote. It refers to the stage in meiosis when chromosomes pair up and come together.