During which phase of meiosis do homologous pairs line up in the center of the cell?

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

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process of meiosis, which consists of two consecutive divisions: Meiosis I and Meiosis II. Each division has four phases: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.
2. Focus on Meiosis I, where homologous chromosomes are separated. This is different from Meiosis II, which separates sister chromatids.
3. Recall that during Metaphase I, homologous chromosomes (pairs of chromosomes) align at the metaphase plate, which is the center of the cell. This alignment is crucial for the subsequent separation of homologous chromosomes.
4. Differentiate between the phases: In Prophase I, homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material through crossing over. In Anaphase I, homologous chromosomes are pulled apart to opposite poles. In Telophase I, the cell prepares to divide into two daughter cells.
5. Conclude that the phase where homologous pairs line up in the center of the cell is Metaphase I, as this is the stage where they are positioned at the metaphase plate before being separated.