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Multiple Choice
During which stage of meiosis do homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material through crossing over?
A
Prophase I
B
Anaphase I
C
Metaphase I
D
Telophase I
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 several stages: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.
Focus on Meiosis I, where homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material. This process is crucial for genetic diversity.
Identify that crossing over, the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes, occurs during Prophase I of Meiosis I. This is facilitated by the formation of a synaptonemal complex.
Recognize that the other stages listed (Anaphase I, Metaphase I, Telophase I) do not involve crossing over. Anaphase I involves the separation of homologous chromosomes, Metaphase I involves their alignment at the metaphase plate, and Telophase I involves the formation of two new nuclei.