During which phase of meiosis do homologous chromosomes separate?

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

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the main stages of meiosis: Meiosis I and Meiosis II, each with Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase phases.
2. Understand that homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes (one from each parent) that pair up during meiosis.
3. Identify that the separation of homologous chromosomes occurs during Meiosis I, not Meiosis II, because Meiosis II separates sister chromatids.
4. Focus on the Anaphase stage within Meiosis I, where the homologous chromosomes are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell.
5. Conclude that the phase during which homologous chromosomes separate is Anaphase I.