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Multiple Choice
In which stage of meiosis do homologous chromosomes separate from each other?
A
Prophase I
B
Anaphase I
C
Anaphase II
D
Metaphase II
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, each genetically distinct from the parent cell.
Recall that meiosis consists of two consecutive divisions: Meiosis I and Meiosis II. Each division has its own stages: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.
In Meiosis I, homologous chromosomes (each consisting of two sister chromatids) pair up during Prophase I and align at the metaphase plate during Metaphase I.
During Anaphase I, the homologous chromosomes are separated and pulled to opposite poles of the cell. This is the key event that distinguishes Anaphase I from Anaphase II, where sister chromatids are separated.
Recognize that the separation of homologous chromosomes during Anaphase I is crucial for reducing the chromosome number by half, which is a defining feature of meiosis.