A Level Biology Practice Exam

What are the two main phases of meiosis?

1. Prophase and Telophase

2. Meiosis I and Meiosis II

3. Interphase and Metaphase

4. Cytokinesis and Anaphase

The correct answer is: Meiosis I and Meiosis II

The correct identification of the two main phases of meiosis as Meiosis I and Meiosis II highlights an important aspect of the reproductive cell division process. Meiosis involves two successive divisions. In Meiosis I, homologous chromosomes are separated, leading to a reduction in chromosome number from diploid to haploid. This phase includes key stages such as prophase I, where crossing over occurs, resulting in genetic diversity. Meiosis II resembles a normal mitotic division but operates on the haploid cells produced in Meiosis I, ultimately separating sister chromatids. This division is crucial for producing gametes (sperm and eggs) that are vital for sexual reproduction. The other options represent processes or stages that do not encompass the full scope of meiosis. For instance, Prophase and Telophase are stages within the broader phases of cell division but do not exclusively define meiosis. Similarly, Interphase is a preparatory phase for cell division rather than a stage of meiosis itself, and options like Cytokinesis and Anaphase pertain more generally to cell division rather than specifically to the unique structure of meiosis.