Diakinesis

/ˌdaɪəkɪˈniːsɪs/ noun

Definition

A stage of meiosis (cell division that creates sex cells) during which homologous chromosomes condense and separate from each other before the final division.

Etymology

From Greek 'dia-' (through, across) + 'kinesis' (movement, motion), literally 'movement across.' This scientific term was coined to describe the visible separation of chromosome pairs during meiosis.

Kelly Says

Diakinesis is the moment of truth in making sperm and egg cells—if chromosomes mess up here, you get genetic problems, which is why this stage has been so carefully studied by geneticists!

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