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Multiple Choice
Which of the following occurs during anaphase I of meiosis?
A
The nuclear envelope reforms around chromosomes.
B
Homologous chromosomes are separated and pulled to opposite poles of the cell.
C
Chromosomes align individually along the metaphase plate.
D
Sister chromatids are separated and move to opposite poles.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of meiosis: Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating four haploid cells. It consists of two stages: meiosis I and meiosis II.
Focus on anaphase I: During anaphase I, homologous chromosomes (pairs of chromosomes, one from each parent) are separated and pulled to opposite poles of the cell. This is a key feature of meiosis I, distinguishing it from mitosis and meiosis II.
Clarify why homologous chromosomes separate: The separation occurs because the spindle fibers attached to the centromeres of homologous chromosomes shorten, pulling them apart. This ensures genetic diversity in the resulting gametes.
Eliminate incorrect options: The nuclear envelope reforms around chromosomes during telophase, not anaphase I. Chromosomes aligning individually along the metaphase plate occurs during metaphase II, and sister chromatids separating happens during anaphase II, not anaphase I.
Conclude the correct answer: Homologous chromosomes are separated and pulled to opposite poles of the cell during anaphase I of meiosis, which is the defining event of this stage.