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Multiple Choice
Which feature of meiosis allows for the independent assortment of chromosomes?
A
Random alignment of homologous chromosomes during metaphase I
B
Crossing over during prophase I
C
Separation of sister chromatids during anaphase II
D
Formation of the synaptonemal complex
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating four haploid cells, each genetically distinct from the parent cell.
Recall that meiosis consists of two stages: Meiosis I and Meiosis II. Each stage has its own phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
Focus on Metaphase I of Meiosis I, where homologous chromosomes (each consisting of two sister chromatids) line up at the metaphase plate.
Recognize that during Metaphase I, the random alignment of homologous chromosome pairs along the metaphase plate is what allows for the independent assortment of chromosomes. This means that the orientation of each pair is random and independent of other pairs.
Understand that this random alignment leads to genetic variation in gametes, as it results in different combinations of maternal and paternal chromosomes being distributed to the daughter cells.