Which of the following correctly lists the main stages of meiosis in the proper order?

• A. Prophase I, Anaphase I, Metaphase I, Telophase I, Prophase II, Anaphase II, Metaphase II, Telophase II
• B. Prophase I, Metaphase I, Anaphase I, Telophase I, Prophase II, Metaphase II, Anaphase II, Telophase II
• C. Prophase II, Metaphase II, Anaphase II, Telophase II, Prophase I, Metaphase I, Anaphase I, Telophase I
• D. Metaphase I, Prophase I, Anaphase I, Telophase I, Metaphase II, Prophase II, Anaphase II, Telophase II

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the process of meiosis, which consists of two consecutive divisions: Meiosis I and Meiosis II. Each division has four main stages: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.
2. Step 2: Recall the sequence of events in Meiosis I. It begins with Prophase I, where homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material (crossing over). Next is Metaphase I, where homologous pairs align at the metaphase plate. Then comes Anaphase I, where homologous chromosomes are pulled apart to opposite poles. Finally, Telophase I occurs, where the cell divides into two haploid cells.
3. Step 3: Understand the sequence of events in Meiosis II, which resembles mitosis. It starts with Prophase II, where the chromosomes condense again. Metaphase II follows, where chromosomes align at the metaphase plate. Anaphase II comes next, where sister chromatids are separated and pulled to opposite poles. Finally, Telophase II occurs, resulting in four haploid cells.
4. Step 4: Compare the given options to the correct sequence of stages in meiosis. The correct order is: Prophase I, Metaphase I, Anaphase I, Telophase I, Prophase II, Metaphase II, Anaphase II, Telophase II.
5. Step 5: Eliminate the incorrect options by identifying any deviations from the proper sequence of stages in meiosis. Select the option that matches the correct order described in Step 4.