What is a key difference between Meiosis I and Meiosis II?

• A. Meiosis I involves DNA replication, while Meiosis II does not.
• B. Meiosis I produces four haploid cells, while Meiosis II produces two diploid cells.
• C. Meiosis I results in the separation of homologous chromosomes, while Meiosis II results in the separation of sister chromatids.
• D. Meiosis I occurs in somatic cells, while Meiosis II occurs in gametes.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of meiosis: Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating four haploid cells from one diploid cell. It is essential for sexual reproduction and occurs in two stages: Meiosis I and Meiosis II.
2. Identify the key events in Meiosis I: Meiosis I is characterized by the separation of homologous chromosomes. During this stage, homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material through a process called crossing over. This results in genetic diversity.
3. Recognize the key events in Meiosis II: Meiosis II is similar to mitosis, where the sister chromatids are separated. This stage does not involve DNA replication, as it follows Meiosis I, which has already reduced the chromosome number.
4. Compare the outcomes of Meiosis I and Meiosis II: Meiosis I results in two haploid cells, each with half the number of chromosomes as the original cell, but still containing sister chromatids. Meiosis II further divides these cells, separating the sister chromatids, resulting in four haploid cells.
5. Clarify the misconceptions: Meiosis I does not produce four haploid cells; it produces two haploid cells. Meiosis II does not produce diploid cells; it results in four haploid cells. Both stages occur in germ cells, not somatic cells.