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Multiple Choice
Synapsis occurs during which stage of meiosis?
A
Anaphase II
B
Telophase I
C
Prophase I
D
Metaphase I
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of synapsis: Synapsis is the pairing of homologous chromosomes during meiosis, which allows for genetic recombination through crossing over.
Recall the stages of meiosis: Meiosis consists of two main divisions, Meiosis I and Meiosis II, each with four phases: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.
Focus on Prophase I: During Prophase I of Meiosis I, homologous chromosomes pair up in a process called synapsis. This is facilitated by the formation of the synaptonemal complex, a protein structure that holds the homologs together.
Differentiate Prophase I from other stages: Synapsis does not occur in Metaphase I, Anaphase II, or Telophase I. These stages involve chromosome alignment, separation, and cell division, but not the pairing of homologous chromosomes.
Conclude that synapsis is specific to Prophase I: This is the only stage in meiosis where homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material through crossing over.