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Multiple Choice
In which phase of meiosis do chromosomes condense and pair up to form homologous pairs?
A
Telophase I
B
Anaphase I
C
Prophase I
D
Metaphase I
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 consecutive divisions: Meiosis I and Meiosis II. Each division has several phases: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.
Focus on Meiosis I, where homologous chromosomes are separated. This is different from Meiosis II, which separates sister chromatids.
In Prophase I of Meiosis I, chromosomes condense and become visible under a microscope. This is also the phase where homologous chromosomes pair up in a process called synapsis, forming structures known as tetrads.
During Prophase I, crossing over can occur, where homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material, increasing genetic diversity. This phase is crucial for genetic variation in sexually reproducing organisms.