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Multiple Choice
What happens to the chromosome number as a result of meiosis?
A
The chromosome number is halved.
B
The chromosome number triples.
C
The chromosome number doubles.
D
The chromosome number remains the same.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the purpose of meiosis: Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating four haploid cells from one diploid cell. This is essential for sexual reproduction.
Identify the stages of meiosis: Meiosis consists of two consecutive divisions, meiosis I and meiosis II. Meiosis I is where the chromosome number is reduced, and meiosis II is similar to mitosis.
Examine meiosis I: During meiosis I, homologous chromosomes are separated into two different cells. This is where the chromosome number is halved, as each new cell receives one chromosome from each homologous pair.
Consider meiosis II: Meiosis II involves the separation of sister chromatids, similar to mitosis, but does not change the chromosome number further. Each of the two cells from meiosis I divides again, resulting in four haploid cells.
Conclude the effect on chromosome number: As a result of meiosis, the original diploid cell (with two sets of chromosomes) produces four haploid cells (each with one set of chromosomes), effectively halving the chromosome number.