During metaphase II of meiosis, how do chromosomes align within the cell?

• A. Individual chromosomes align along the metaphase plate, with sister chromatids on either side.
• B. Homologous chromosome pairs align together along the metaphase plate.
• C. Chromosomes form a single file at the cell's poles.
• D. Chromatids are randomly distributed throughout the cytoplasm.

Answer: (A)

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, producing four haploid cells. It consists of two stages: meiosis I and meiosis II. Metaphase II occurs during the second stage of meiosis.
2. Recall the key difference between metaphase I and metaphase II: In metaphase I, homologous chromosome pairs align along the metaphase plate. In metaphase II, individual chromosomes (not homologous pairs) align along the metaphase plate.
3. Visualize the structure of chromosomes during metaphase II: Each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids connected at the centromere. These chromatids are positioned on opposite sides of the metaphase plate.
4. Understand the role of spindle fibers: Spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes and help align them along the metaphase plate. This ensures that sister chromatids are properly separated during anaphase II.
5. Eliminate incorrect options: Based on the understanding of metaphase II, discard options that suggest homologous pairs align together, chromosomes form a single file at the poles, or chromatids are randomly distributed. Focus on the correct description: Individual chromosomes align along the metaphase plate, with sister chromatids on either side.