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Multiple Choice
During meiosis, which of the following separates during anaphase I?
A
Centromeres
B
Sister chromatids
C
Homologous chromosomes
D
Nucleoli
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of meiosis: Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing four haploid cells. It consists of two stages: Meiosis I and Meiosis II. Anaphase I occurs during Meiosis I.
Review the events of Anaphase I: During Anaphase I, homologous chromosomes (pairs of chromosomes, one from each parent) are pulled apart and move to opposite poles of the cell. This separation reduces the chromosome number by half.
Clarify the role of centromeres: In Anaphase I, the centromeres do not split. Instead, they hold the sister chromatids together as the homologous chromosomes are separated.
Differentiate between homologous chromosomes and sister chromatids: Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes (one maternal and one paternal) that are similar in structure and gene content. Sister chromatids are identical copies of a single chromosome, connected by a centromere. In Anaphase I, homologous chromosomes separate, not sister chromatids.
Conclude that the correct answer is homologous chromosomes: Based on the events of Anaphase I, homologous chromosomes are the structures that separate during this phase, while sister chromatids remain attached at their centromeres until Anaphase II of Meiosis II.