Multiple Choice
During meiosis, at which stage do homologous chromosomes (not sister chromatids) separate and move to opposite poles of the cell?
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9. Mitosis and Meiosis
Meiosis
Multiple Choice
In meiosis I, what is the primary goal of the division?
A
To replicate DNA so each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids
B
To eliminate mutations by correcting DNA replication errors before cell division
C
To separate homologous chromosomes, reducing the chromosome number from diploid to haploid
D
To separate sister chromatids to produce genetically identical daughter cells
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that meiosis consists of two sequential divisions: meiosis I and meiosis II, each with distinct goals.
Recall that before meiosis begins, DNA replication occurs during the S phase, so each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids.
Identify that the primary goal of meiosis I is to separate homologous chromosomes, which are pairs of chromosomes (one from each parent) that carry the same genes but may have different alleles.
Recognize that by separating homologous chromosomes, meiosis I reduces the chromosome number from diploid (2n) to haploid (n), which is essential for sexual reproduction.
Note that the separation of sister chromatids occurs later in meiosis II, not meiosis I, and that meiosis I does not focus on correcting DNA replication errors.
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