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During Metaphase I of meiosis:

Homologous chromosomes (one from each parent) line up randomly at the equator of the cell.

The orientation of each homologous pair is independent of the orientation of other pairs.

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When the pairs are pulled apart in Anaphase I, the combination of maternal and paternal chromosomes that end up in each gamete is random.

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This leads to a huge number of possible combinations of chromosomes in the gametes. For a species with nchromosome pairs, there are 2ⁿ possible combinations.

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This random alignment and separation directly explains Mendel’s law of independent assortment, which states that:

Alleles of different genes assort independently of one another during gamete formation.

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Interphase – DNA is replicated

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Prophase – Chromosomes condense and spindle fibers form

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Metaphase – Chromosomes line up in the center.

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Anaphase – Sister chromatids separate to opposite ends.

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Telophase – Nuclear membranes reform.

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Cytokinesis – Cell divides into two identical daughter cells.

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Prophase I – Homologous chromosomes pair up and crossing over occurs.

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Metaphase I – Paired chromosomes align randomly (independent assortment).

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Anaphase I – Homologous chromosomes are pulled apart.

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Telophase I & Cytokinesis – Two haploid cells are formed.

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Mitosis creates identical cells for body functions, while meiosis produces diverse gametes for reproduction.

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The steps of meiosis—especially crossing over and independent assortment—ensure genetic diversity, which is the foundation of Mendel’s genetic laws.

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The behavior of chromosomes during meiosis is essential for generating genetic variation and directly explains Mendel’s law of independent assortment through two main mechanisms: crossing over and independent assortment of chromosomes.

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Homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange segments of DNA.

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Homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange segments of DNA.

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Increases genetic diversity within a species.

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Each has a full set of identical DNA (same as the parent).

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Used in body cells (somatic cells).

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The unique behaviors of chromosomes during meiosis—crossing over and independent assortment—create genetic variation in offspring and explain Mendel’s law of independent assortment. In contrast, mitosis produces identical cells without introducing variation, because chromosomes behave in a uniform, controlled way that copies the parent DNA exactly.