In a typical diploid somatic cell undergoing mitosis, which statement best describes the presence and behavior of homologous chromosomes?

• A. Homologous chromosomes are present but they do not pair (synapse) or undergo crossing over during mitosis.
• B. Homologous chromosomes separate from each other at anaphase of mitosis, while sister chromatids remain together.
• C. Homologous chromosomes are absent because mitosis occurs only in haploid cells.
• D. Homologous chromosomes pair as bivalents and undergo crossing over during prophase of mitosis.

Answer: (A)