Question

In which phase of meiosis does the chromosome number change from diploid to haploid?

a) Prophase I
b) Metaphase I
c) Anaphase I
d) Telophase I

Answer 1

The chromosome number changes from diploid to haploid during anaphase I of meiosis, when homologous chromosomes are separated. Meiosis consists of two divisions, meiosis I and II, where meiosis I involves separation of homologous chromosomes, and meiosis II is similar to mitosis with the separation of sister chromatids, resulting in haploid gametes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The phase of meiosis where the chromosome number changes from diploid to haploid is during anaphase I. In this phase, homologous chromosomes are separated and pulled to opposite poles of the cell. This reduction in chromosome number is crucial as it ensures that the resulting gametes will have the correct haploid number of chromosomes.

Both meiosis I and meiosis II play roles in reducing the chromosome number and ensuring genetic diversity. In meiosis I, homologous chromosomes separate, while in meiosis II, similar to mitosis, the sister chromatids separate. At the end of meiosis II, four unique gametes with a haploid set of chromosomes are produced.

To briefly address related stages, individual chromosomes become visible with a light microscope during prophase of mitosis. Throughout meiosis, prophase I and II, metaphase I and II, anaphase I and II, and telophase I and II, all contribute to the intricate process of gamete formation.