Cellular Reproduction

Overview

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Explore the fundamental processes of sexual and asexual reproduction that allow life to continue, from the faithful cell division of mitosis to the creation of unique sex cells through meiosis. This course examines how cells control this division and how sexual reproduction generates the vast genetic diversity that is essential for natural selection to act upon. By the end of this course, you will be able to explain the mechanics of cell division and articulate why sexual reproduction serves as a powerful engine for creating diversity in the natural world.

Syllabus

Cellular Reproduction

In this course, we will see the processes that allow life to continue - sexual and asexual reproduction. We’ll see how cells divide their chromosomes during mitosis to faithfully reproduce themselves and how they control the decision when to do this. We’ll also see how some cells, sex cells, reproduce while cutting their chromosome number in half. These cells then unite to return to the normal number of chromosomes through fertilization. Finally, we’ll discuss how the process of sexual reproduction creates tremendous diversity that natural selection can choose from.