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Multiple Choice
Which structure, containing four chromatids, forms during meiosis and is essential for crossing over?
A
Spindle fiber
B
Tetrad
C
Centromere
D
Chromatin
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context: Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing four haploid cells. During meiosis, homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material through a process called crossing over.
Identify the key term: A tetrad is a structure formed during prophase I of meiosis when homologous chromosomes pair up. Each homologous chromosome consists of two sister chromatids, so the tetrad contains a total of four chromatids.
Relate the tetrad to crossing over: Crossing over occurs at the chiasmata, which are points where homologous chromosomes in the tetrad exchange genetic material. This process increases genetic diversity in the resulting gametes.
Eliminate incorrect options: Spindle fibers are involved in chromosome movement, centromeres are the regions where sister chromatids are joined, and chromatin refers to the uncondensed form of DNA. None of these directly form the structure essential for crossing over.
Conclude: The tetrad is the structure containing four chromatids that forms during meiosis and is essential for crossing over.