Which of the following processes occurs in meiosis but not in mitosis?

• A. Chromosome replication during interphase.
• B. Synapsis of chromosomes during prophase.
• C. Alignment of chromosomes at the center of the cell.
• D. Condensation of chromosomes during prophase.
• E. None of the above.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key difference between meiosis and mitosis: Meiosis involves two rounds of cell division (meiosis I and meiosis II) and results in four genetically diverse haploid cells, while mitosis involves one round of cell division and results in two identical diploid cells.
2. Identify the unique process in meiosis: Synapsis is a process that occurs during prophase I of meiosis, where homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material through crossing over. This does not occur in mitosis.
3. Review the options given: Chromosome replication during interphase occurs in both meiosis and mitosis. Alignment of chromosomes at the center of the cell occurs during metaphase in both processes. Condensation of chromosomes during prophase is also common to both.
4. Focus on the unique feature: Synapsis of chromosomes during prophase is specific to meiosis and is crucial for genetic diversity, as it allows for recombination and independent assortment of chromosomes.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is the process that is exclusive to meiosis, which is the synapsis of chromosomes during prophase I.