Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
During prophase I of meiosis, how does a tetrad form?
A
By the division of the cytoplasm
B
By the replication of DNA
C
By the pairing of homologous chromosomes
D
By the separation of sister chromatids
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four daughter cells. It consists of two stages: Meiosis I and Meiosis II.
Focus on Prophase I of Meiosis I, which is a critical phase where homologous chromosomes pair up. This pairing is essential for genetic recombination.
Recognize that a tetrad is formed during Prophase I when each chromosome pairs with its homologous chromosome. This pairing is known as synapsis.
Visualize that each homologous chromosome consists of two sister chromatids, so when they pair up, they form a structure with four chromatids, hence the name 'tetrad'.
Remember that the formation of tetrads is crucial for crossing over, where genetic material is exchanged between homologous chromosomes, increasing genetic diversity.