During which of the following phases of meiosis do homologous chromosomes separate?

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

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process 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. Each stage has its own phases: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.
2. Focus on the key event in Anaphase I: During Anaphase I of Meiosis I, homologous chromosomes (pairs of chromosomes, one from each parent) are separated and pulled to opposite poles of the cell by the spindle fibers. This is a defining feature of Anaphase I.
3. Differentiate between homologous chromosomes and sister chromatids: Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes that are similar in size, shape, and genetic content but come from different parents. In contrast, sister chromatids are identical copies of a single chromosome, connected by a centromere.
4. Compare Anaphase I and Anaphase II: In Anaphase I, homologous chromosomes separate, while in Anaphase II (part of Meiosis II), sister chromatids are separated. This distinction is crucial to understanding the phases of meiosis.
5. Review the other phases mentioned: Metaphase I involves the alignment of homologous chromosomes at the metaphase plate, Prophase II is the preparation phase for the second division, and Anaphase II involves the separation of sister chromatids. None of these involve the separation of homologous chromosomes, which is specific to Anaphase I.