During which stage of meiosis do homologous chromosomes separate?

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

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the main stages of meiosis and their key events: Prophase I, Metaphase I, Anaphase I, Telophase I, followed by Meiosis II stages.
2. Understand that homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes (one from each parent) that pair up during Prophase I and align during Metaphase I.
3. Identify that the separation of homologous chromosomes occurs after they have aligned at the metaphase plate, which happens during Anaphase I.
4. Differentiate this from Anaphase II, where sister chromatids (not homologous chromosomes) separate, similar to mitosis.
5. Conclude that the stage where homologous chromosomes separate is Anaphase I, as this is the defining event of the first meiotic division.