Final answer:
Meiosis I is known as reduction division, a significant stage in meiosis where the chromosome number is halved from diploid to haploid. It consists of various stages that are similar to those in mitosis but specifically adapted for this process.
Step-by-step explanation:
Meiosis I is the first round of meiotic cell division and is often referred to as reduction division. This is because, during Meiosis I, the number of chromosomes is reduced by half, resulting in haploid cells from the original diploid state. The process includes multiple stages: prophase I, prometaphase I and so on, which are analogous to the mitotic stages but are followed by a second division in Meiosis II. The importance of Meiosis I lies in its role in sexual reproduction, ensuring genetic diversity through recombination and independent assortment.
Starting with a diploid cell, Meiosis I encompasses several phases similar to mitosis but with crucial differences leading to the reduction of chromosome number. After the completion of the G1, S, and G2 phases in interphase, Meiosis I proceeds through its unique stages. The most notable event during Meiosis I is the separation of homologous chromosomes, which contrasts with mitosis, where sister chromatids get separated. This reduction in the ploidy level from diploid to haploid is unique to Meiosis I, making it distinct in the cell cycle.