Synapsis can only occur during which stage of meiosis?

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

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that synapsis is the process where homologous chromosomes pair up tightly along their lengths during meiosis.
2. Recall the stages of meiosis I and meiosis II, focusing on the events that characterize each stage.
3. Identify that synapsis occurs before crossing over, which is a key feature of Prophase I in meiosis I.
4. Recognize that during Anaphase I, homologous chromosomes separate, so synapsis cannot occur then.
5. Conclude that synapsis specifically happens during Prophase I, as this is when homologous chromosomes pair and exchange genetic material.