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Multiple Choice
During independent assortment, pairs of ______ line up at the metaphase plate and separate.
A
homologous chromosomes
B
centromeres
C
sister chromatids
D
genes
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of the question: it refers to the process of independent assortment during meiosis, specifically during metaphase I.
Recall that during metaphase I of meiosis, pairs of homologous chromosomes (each consisting of two sister chromatids) line up at the metaphase plate.
Recognize that independent assortment involves the random orientation and separation of these homologous chromosome pairs, not individual sister chromatids or genes.
Note that centromeres are the regions where sister chromatids are held together, but they themselves do not line up or separate independently.
Conclude that the correct term to fill in the blank is 'homologous chromosomes' because they are the pairs that line up and separate during independent assortment.