Homologous chromosomes — Science definition
A matching pair of chromosomes, one inherited from each parent, that carry the same genes.
Where it is taught
- Meiosis & Sexual Reproduction — Cell Division, Reproduction & Development, Life Science: Biology, Grade 10
In use
The key move happens in the first division, when homologous chromosomes — the matching pairs, one from each parent — are separated from each other.
Meiosis & Sexual Reproduction
Questions using homologous chromosomes
Problem 1
An organism has 5 pairs of homologous chromosomes. From independent assortment alone, how many genetically different gametes are possible?
Answer and explanation
32 gametes
Each of the 5 pairs assorts independently in 2 ways: 2^5 = 32.
Problem 2
An organism has 4 pairs of homologous chromosomes. How many different gamete chromosome combinations can independent assortment alone produce?
Answer and explanation
16
Each pair separates independently, giving 2⁴ = 16 combinations, before crossing over adds further variation.