Question

which is true regarding meiosis in a single germ cell?

multiple choice

it results in 4 cells with 23 pairs of chromosomes each.

it results in 2 cells with 46 chromosomes each

it results in 4 cells with 46 chromosomes each.

it results in 4 cells with 46 pairs of chromosomes each.

it results in 4 cells with 23 chromosomes each.

Explanation:

Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half. A single germ cell (diploid, 46 chromosomes in humans) undergoes two rounds of division (meiosis I and meiosis II). After meiosis, four haploid cells are produced. In humans, haploid cells have 23 chromosomes (not pairs, as pairs are present in diploid cells).

• The first option is wrong because it mentions 23 pairs (diploid - meiosis produces haploid).
• The second option is wrong as it says 2 cells (meiosis gives 4 cells) and 46 chromosomes (diploid number).
• The third option is wrong because 46 chromosomes are diploid number (meiosis gives haploid).
• The fourth option is wrong as 46 pairs is incorrect (meiosis reduces chromosome number, and in humans, germ cells start with 23 pairs (46 chromosomes) and end with 23 single chromosomes).
• The fifth option is correct as meiosis of a single germ cell (in humans) results in 4 cells, each with 23 chromosomes (haploid).

Answer:

It results in 4 cells with 23 chromosomes each.