Question

The given figure is the representation of a certain event at a particular stage of a type of cell division. Which is this stage?

• A. Prophase-I during meiosis
• B. Prophase-II during meiosis
• C. Prophase of mitosis
• D. Both prophase and metaphase of mitosis

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The question requires identifying the stage of cell division depicted in the provided figure. Let's break down the possibilities given the options.

1. The correct answer states Prophase-I during meiosis. During Prophase-I of meiosis, several unique events occur:
   • Synapsis: Homologous chromosomes pair up.
   • Crossing over: Exchange of genetic material takes place between homologous chromosomes. 
   • Recombination nodules appear, indicating the sites of genetic exchange.
2. Let us consider why the other options do not match the characteristics seen in the image:
   • Prophase-II during meiosis: During this phase, chromosomes do not pair up, and there is no crossing over. Hence, it does not fit the image with homologous pairing.
   • Prophase of mitosis: Chromosomes condense, but there is no synapsis or crossing over.
   • Both prophase and metaphase of mitosis: These stages do not include homologous pairing or crossing over, which are unique to meiosis.

Therefore, based on the explanation above, the stage shown in the image is indeed Prophase-I during meiosis, marked by the pairing and recombination of homologous chromosomes.