Question 1

Which of the following best describes the chromosome number in a human zygote?

Accepted Answer

Diploid (2n), with 46 chromosomes

Question 2

During which phase of meiosis does crossing over, which increases genetic diversity, primarily occur?

Accepted Answer

Prophase I

Question 3

What is the main difference between metaphase of mitosis and metaphase I of meiosis?

Accepted Answer

Chromosomes align as single chromatids in mitosis, but as tetrads in meiosis I

Question 4

Which of the following equations correctly represents the chromosome number after meiosis in humans?

Accepted Answer

$$2n \rightarrow n$$

Question 5

A mutation prevents the separation of homologous chromosomes during anaphase I of meiosis. What is the most likely outcome?

Accepted Answer

Gametes with abnormal chromosome numbers (nondisjunction)

Question 6

Which process results in two genetically identical diploid daughter cells?

Accepted Answer

Mitosis

Question 7

If a diploid cell with 12 chromosomes undergoes meiosis, how many chromosomes will each resulting gamete have?

Accepted Answer

$$n = 6$$

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a function of mitosis in multicellular organisms?

Accepted Answer

Production of gametes

Question 9

What is the significance of random orientation of homologous chromosomes during metaphase I of meiosis?

Accepted Answer

It increases genetic variation in gametes

Question 10

Which event occurs during anaphase II of meiosis but not during anaphase I?

Accepted Answer

Separation of sister chromatids

Question 11

A scientist observes a cell with paired homologous chromosomes aligned at the metaphase plate. Which phase is this cell in?

Accepted Answer

Metaphase I of meiosis

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why meiosis is essential for sexual reproduction?

Accepted Answer

It reduces the chromosome number by half, preventing chromosome doubling in offspring

Question 13

Which phase of meiosis is most directly responsible for the formation of genetically unique gametes?

Accepted Answer

Prophase I

Question 14

If a mutation occurred that prevented cytokinesis after meiosis II, what would be the result?

Accepted Answer

One cell with four haploid nuclei

Question 15

Which of the following statements about the zygote is correct?

Accepted Answer

It is the first diploid cell formed after fertilization

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the outcome of meiosis II?

Accepted Answer

Four genetically unique haploid cells

Question 17

Which process is responsible for the reduction in chromosome number during gamete formation?

Accepted Answer

Meiosis I

Question 18

Which of the following is a key difference between mitosis and meiosis?

Accepted Answer

Mitosis produces diploid cells; meiosis produces haploid cells

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why genetic variation is important in sexually reproducing populations?

Accepted Answer

It increases the chances of survival in changing environments

Question 20

Which of the following events does NOT occur during prophase II of meiosis?

Accepted Answer

Synapsis of homologous chromosomes

Meiosis, Mitosis, and Chromosome Inheritance

Study Guide - Practice Questions