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Multiple Choice
Which of the following distinguishes Metaphase I from Metaphase II in meiosis?
A
The nuclear envelope reforms in Metaphase I.
B
Chromosomes are not visible in Metaphase I.
C
Sister chromatids align at the equatorial plate in Metaphase I.
D
Homologous chromosomes align at the equatorial plate in Metaphase I.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the stages of meiosis: Meiosis consists of two consecutive divisions, Meiosis I and Meiosis II, each with its own stages: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.
Identify the key events in Metaphase I: During Metaphase I, homologous chromosomes (pairs of homologous chromosomes) align at the equatorial plate. This is a critical step for the separation of homologous chromosomes.
Identify the key events in Metaphase II: In Metaphase II, the chromosomes, which are now composed of sister chromatids, align at the equatorial plate. This is similar to mitosis.
Compare Metaphase I and Metaphase II: The main distinction is that in Metaphase I, homologous chromosomes align at the equatorial plate, whereas in Metaphase II, it is the sister chromatids that align at the equatorial plate.
Conclude the distinguishing feature: The alignment of homologous chromosomes at the equatorial plate is unique to Metaphase I, distinguishing it from Metaphase II where sister chromatids align.