Multiple Choice
During which stage of meiosis do homologous chromosomes separate from each other and move to opposite poles?
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9. Mitosis and Meiosis
Meiosis
Multiple Choice
During which stage of meiosis does crossing-over (genetic recombination between homologous chromosomes) occur?
A
Anaphase I (when homologous chromosomes separate to opposite poles)
B
Prophase I (specifically during pachytene, after synapsis forms the tetrads)
C
Metaphase I (when homologous chromosomes align at the metaphase plate)
D
Prophase II (when sister chromatids recondense after meiosis I)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that crossing-over is the process where homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material, increasing genetic diversity.
Recall the stages of meiosis I, focusing on Prophase I, which is subdivided into leptotene, zygotene, pachytene, diplotene, and diakinesis.
Identify that during the pachytene stage of Prophase I, homologous chromosomes are fully paired as tetrads and the synaptonemal complex facilitates crossing-over.
Note that crossing-over does not occur during Anaphase I, Metaphase I, or Prophase II, as these stages involve chromosome alignment or separation rather than recombination.
Conclude that the correct stage for crossing-over is Prophase I, specifically during the pachytene substage after synapsis has formed tetrads.
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