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Multiple Choice
Which of the following processes occurs in meiosis but not in mitosis?
A
Homologous chromosomes undergo crossing over
B
Sister chromatids are separated
C
Chromosomes align at the metaphase plate
D
DNA replication occurs prior to cell division
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the key difference between meiosis and mitosis: Meiosis is a specialized type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing four haploid cells, while mitosis results in two identical diploid cells.
Recall that homologous chromosomes (pairs of chromosomes, one from each parent) are present in meiosis but not in mitosis. In meiosis, these homologous chromosomes pair up during prophase I.
Learn about crossing over: During prophase I of meiosis, homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material at points called chiasmata. This process is called crossing over and increases genetic diversity. This does not occur in mitosis.
Review the other processes listed in the question: Sister chromatids are separated in both meiosis (anaphase II) and mitosis (anaphase). Chromosomes align at the metaphase plate in both meiosis (metaphase I and II) and mitosis. DNA replication occurs prior to both meiosis and mitosis during the S phase of the cell cycle.
Conclude that the process unique to meiosis is homologous chromosomes undergoing crossing over, as this is not observed in mitosis.