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Multiple Choice
The zipper-like complex that forms in meiosis occurs during __________ and is called the __________.
A
anaphase I; chiasma
B
prophase I; synaptonemal complex
C
metaphase II; spindle apparatus
D
telophase I; kinetochore
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, creating four haploid cells. It consists of two stages: meiosis I and meiosis II.
Focus on prophase I: During prophase I of meiosis I, homologous chromosomes pair up in a process called synapsis. This pairing is facilitated by a structure known as the synaptonemal complex.
Learn the role of the synaptonemal complex: The synaptonemal complex is a protein structure that acts like a zipper, holding homologous chromosomes together tightly during synapsis. This is crucial for genetic recombination and crossing over.
Differentiate the terms: The chiasma refers to the physical point where crossing over occurs, but it is not the structure that facilitates pairing. The spindle apparatus and kinetochore are involved in chromosome movement during later stages of meiosis, not prophase I.
Conclude the correct answer: The zipper-like complex that forms during meiosis is the synaptonemal complex, and it occurs during prophase I.