Find the best tutors and institutes for Class 11 Tuition
Q7(b):
Describe the following:
(b) bivalent
Draw a diagram to illustrate your answer.
Solution :
Theoretical Definition of a Bivalent
A bivalent (also known as a tetrad) refers to the physical association of a pair of homologous chromosomes during the prophase I stage of meiosis [Per the Synapsis Process]. In this configuration, one chromosome is inherited from the male parent and the other from the female parent. The bivalent structure is stabilized by the synaptonemal complex, which facilitates precise alignment for potential genetic recombination [By the Mechanism of Crossing Over].
Structural Components of a Bivalent
- Homologous Pair: Two chromosomes of similar length, gene position, and centromere location.
- Sister Chromatids: Each chromosome consists of two identical sister chromatids connected at the centromere.
- Tetrad Configuration: Because each of the two homologous chromosomes consists of two sister chromatids, a single bivalent contains a total of four chromatids.
- Chiasmata: The visible points of connection where non-sister chromatids have undergone physical exchange of genetic material.
Visual Representation of a Bivalent
Functional Significance in Meiosis
| Process | Biological Outcome |
|---|---|
| Synapsis | Ensures accurate pairing of homologs [By Zygotene stage mechanics]. |
| Crossing Over | Results in genetic recombination, increasing variation in gametes [Per Mendel's Law of Independent Assortment]. |
| Alignment | Facilitates the orientation on the metaphase plate for segregation to opposite poles [Per Anaphase I kinetics]. |
Final Solution: A bivalent is a structural unit formed during Prophase I of meiosis, consisting of two homologous chromosomes (comprising four chromatids) held together by synapsis and often linked by at least one chiasma, essential for ensuring proper segregation and genetic diversity in sexually reproducing organisms.
More Questions from Class 11 Biology Cell Cycle and Division EXERCISES
- Q1: What is the average cell cycle span for a mammalian cell?
- Q2: Distinguish cytokinesis from karyokinesis.
- Q3: Describe the events taking place during interphase.
- Q4: What is $G_0$ (quiescent phase) of cell cycle?
- Q5: Why is mitosis called equational division?
- Q6(i): Name the stage of cell cycle at which one of the following events occur: (i) Chromosomes are moved to spindle equator.
- Q6(ii): Name the stage of cell cycle at which one of the following events occur: (ii) Centromere splits and chromatids separate.
- Q6(iii): Name the stage of cell cycle at which one of the following events occur: (iii) Pairing between homologous chromosomes takes place.
- Q6(iv): Name the stage of cell cycle at which one of the following events occur: (iv) Crossing over between homologous chromosomes takes place.
- Q7(a): Describe the following: (a) synapsis Draw a diagram to illustrate your answer.
- Q7(c): Describe the following: (c) chiasmata Draw a diagram to illustrate your answer.
- Q8: How does cytokinesis in plant cells differ from that in animal cells?
- Q9: Find examples where the four daughter cells from meiosis are equal in size and where they are found unequal in size.
- Q10: Distinguish anaphase of mitosis from anaphase I of meiosis.
- Q11: List the main differences between mitosis and meiosis.
- Q12: What is the significance of meiosis?
- Q13(i): Discuss with your teacher about (i) haploid insects and lower plants where cell-division occurs, and
- Q13(ii): Discuss with your teacher about (ii) some haploid cells in higher plants where cell-division does not occur.
- Q14: Can there be mitosis without DNA replication in ‘S’ phase?
- Q15: Can there be DNA replication without cell division?
- Q16(i): Analyse the events during every stage of cell cycle and notice how the following two parameters change (i) number of chromosomes ($N$) per cell
- Q16(ii): Analyse the events during every stage of cell cycle and notice how the following two parameters change (ii) amount of DNA content ($C$) per cell
CBSE Solutions for Class 11 Biology Cell Cycle and Division
Chapters in CBSE - Class 11 Biology
- The Living World
- Biological Classification
- Plant Kingdom
- Animal Kingdom
- Morphology of Flowering Plants
- Anatomy of Flowering Plants
- Structural Organisation in Animals
- Cell – The Unit of Life
- Biomolecules
- Transport in Plants
- Mineral Nutrition
- Photosynthesis
- Respiration in Plants
- Plant Growth and Development
- Digestion and Absorption
- Breathing and Exchange of Gases
- Body Fluids and Circulation
- Excretory Products and Elimination
- Locomotion and Movement
- Neural Control and Coordination
- Chemical Coordination and Integration
Top Tutors who teach Cell Cycle and Division
Experience of 10 years
Good teaching style and has well knowledge about his subject. Sir is very punctual about time and study
I am an experienced tutor specializing in Applied Mathematics, with over 12 years of dedicated teaching. My approach blends conceptual clarity with real-world applications, making math both accessible and relevant for students. Over the years, I have worked with learners across various academic levels, helping them build strong analytical skills, improve problem-solving techniques, and develop confidence in mathematics. With a passion for teaching and a deep understanding of the subject, I aim to make every session engaging and tailored to individual learning styles
I have taken tuition for class 11 Physics students of ISC AND CBSE board students.
I provide online tutoring for class 11 CBSE students. It would be completely CBSE board exam oriented following NCERT textbook and R.D Sharma for reference. Live interactive sessions. Personalized doubt clearing sessions for selected chapters or one-to-one/group sessions for complete coverage of the syllabus or sessions only for selected chapters, according to the need of each student. Please note I don't provide any entrance tuitions.
Excellent, she is very helpful for my kids and always takes initiative to improve the quality and study for extra Activities.
Go through my profile to know about me Chemistry 11 is a pivotal, often challenging, transition from general science to in-depth, analytical chemistry, focusing on atomic structure, stoichiometry, and chemical reactions. The experience involves intensive lab work, rigorous mathematical problem-solving (mole concept), and understanding molecular behavior, moving from conceptual understanding to practical, hands-on experimentation.
She was an excellent tutor; thanks to her guidance, I achieved outstanding marks in my 12th-grade board exams. Thank you is such a small word for all your help—thank you so much, Ma'am! ❤️✨
Other Subjects in CBSE - Class 11
Download free CBSE - Class 11 Biology Cell Cycle and Division EXERCISES worksheets
Download Now