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Multiple Choice
What significant event occurs during Prophase I of meiosis?
A
Homologous chromosomes pair and exchange genetic material
B
The nuclear envelope reforms
C
Chromosomes align at the metaphase plate
D
Sister chromatids separate
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating four haploid cells. It consists of two stages: Meiosis I and Meiosis II.
Focus on Prophase I, which is a crucial phase in Meiosis I. During this phase, several key events occur that are essential for genetic diversity.
Recognize that one of the most significant events in Prophase I is the pairing of homologous chromosomes. This process is known as synapsis, where each chromosome pairs with its corresponding homologous chromosome.
During synapsis, a process called crossing over occurs. This is where homologous chromosomes exchange segments of genetic material, leading to genetic recombination and increased genetic diversity in the resulting gametes.
Note that the other options provided (nuclear envelope reforms, chromosomes align at the metaphase plate, and sister chromatids separate) occur in different stages of cell division, not during Prophase I of meiosis.