Which process describes the separation of homologous pairs to opposite poles?

Which process describes the separation of homologous pairs to opposite poles?

• A. Crossing over.
• B. Segregation.
• C. Independent assortment.
• D. Mutation.

Answer: (B)

The main concept is the segregation of homologous chromosomes during meiosis I, where the paired homologs are pulled to opposite poles. During anaphase I, spindle fibers separate the homologous chromosomes so that each gamete will receive one member of each pair. This aligns with Mendel’s law of segregation, ensuring that alleles separate into different gametes. Crossing over occurs earlier, in prophase I, exchanging genetic material between homologs rather than separating them to opposite poles. Independent assortment describes how homologous pairs orient randomly at metaphase I, contributing to genetic variation but not the actual movement to opposite poles. Mutation is simply a change in the DNA sequence and isn’t about chromosome separation during meiosis.

The main concept is the segregation of homologous chromosomes during meiosis I, where the paired homologs are pulled to opposite poles. During anaphase I, spindle fibers separate the homologous chromosomes so that each gamete will receive one member of each pair. This aligns with Mendel’s law of segregation, ensuring that alleles separate into different gametes.

Crossing over occurs earlier, in prophase I, exchanging genetic material between homologs rather than separating them to opposite poles. Independent assortment describes how homologous pairs orient randomly at metaphase I, contributing to genetic variation but not the actual movement to opposite poles. Mutation is simply a change in the DNA sequence and isn’t about chromosome separation during meiosis.