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Multiple Choice
To visualize and identify meiotic cells at metaphase I with a microscope, what would you look for?
A
Chromosomes condensing but not yet aligned
B
Individual sister chromatids lined up at the metaphase plate
C
A single nucleus with decondensed chromatin
D
Homologous chromosome pairs aligned at the metaphase plate
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of meiosis: Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing gametes. It consists of two stages: Meiosis I and Meiosis II. Metaphase I occurs during Meiosis I.
Recall the key feature of metaphase I: During metaphase I, homologous chromosome pairs (not individual sister chromatids) align at the metaphase plate. This is a distinguishing feature of meiosis compared to mitosis.
Use the microscope to identify the metaphase plate: The metaphase plate is an imaginary plane in the middle of the cell where chromosomes align during metaphase.
Look for homologous chromosome pairs: Under the microscope, you should observe pairs of homologous chromosomes (each consisting of two sister chromatids) aligned at the metaphase plate. This alignment is facilitated by spindle fibers attached to the centromeres.
Ensure you do not confuse this stage with other stages: Chromosomes condensing but not yet aligned corresponds to prophase I, individual sister chromatids lined up at the metaphase plate occurs in metaphase II, and a single nucleus with decondensed chromatin is characteristic of interphase.