---
title: "Homologous Pairs — AP Bio Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Homologous pairs are matching chromosomes, one from each parent, that pair up in meiosis I. Learn how they drive genetic variation and crossing over for AP Bio."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-bio/key-terms/homologous-pairs"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Biology"
---

# Homologous Pairs — AP Bio Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Homologous pairs are two chromosomes, one from each parent, that are similar in shape and size and carry the same type of genetic information.

## Related Study Guides

- [5.1 Meiosis](/ap-bio/unit-5/meiosis/study-guide/FC0aTuODYikjJuhlBO1Z)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Allele](/ap-bio/key-terms/allele): An allele is a variant form of a gene. Each person has two alleles for each gene - one inherited from each parent.
- Chromosome: A chromosome is a long DNA molecule with part or all of the genetic material of an organism.
- Gene: A gene is a segment on the DNA that contains instructions to make proteins – the key structural materials in our bodies.