Question

a cell preparing to undergo meiosis duplicates its chromosomes during
interphase.
anaphase i.
meiosis ii.
prophase i.
metaphase i.

Explanation:

To determine when a cell preparing for meiosis duplicates its chromosomes, we analyze each phase:

• Interphase: This is the stage where the cell grows, replicates its DNA (chromosome duplication), and prepares for division. Before meiosis, the cell goes through interphase to duplicate chromosomes.
• Anaphase I: In this phase of meiosis I, homologous chromosomes are pulled apart to opposite poles. Chromosome duplication does not occur here.
• Meiosis II: Meiosis II is similar to mitosis and involves separating sister chromatids. Chromosome duplication does not occur before or during meiosis II (the cell has already duplicated chromosomes in interphase before meiosis I).
• Prophase I: This is the first stage of meiosis I where homologous chromosomes pair up (synapsis) and crossing over occurs. Chromosomes are already duplicated by this point.
• Metaphase I: Homologous chromosome pairs line up at the cell's equator. Chromosome duplication is not happening here.

So, the cell duplicates its chromosomes during interphase before meiosis begins.

Answer:

A. interphase.