Which of the following does NOT occur during meiosis?

• A. Formation of haploid gametes
• B. Crossing over between homologous chromosomes
• C. Separation of homologous chromosomes
• D. Replication of DNA between meiosis I and meiosis II

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the process of meiosis. Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in the formation of haploid gametes. It consists of two stages: meiosis I and meiosis II.
2. Step 2: Recall that DNA replication occurs during the S phase of interphase, prior to meiosis I. This ensures that each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids before entering meiosis I.
3. Step 3: During meiosis I, homologous chromosomes pair up and may undergo crossing over, which is the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes. This increases genetic diversity.
4. Step 4: Separation of homologous chromosomes occurs during anaphase I of meiosis I, reducing the chromosome number by half. This is a key feature of meiosis.
5. Step 5: Note that DNA replication does NOT occur between meiosis I and meiosis II. Meiosis II directly follows meiosis I and involves the separation of sister chromatids, resulting in haploid cells. This is the correct answer to the question.