Question

multiple choice - chapter 10 - question 49
1 part of 1 point
independent assortment of chromosomes during meiosis is a result of
the random nature of the fertilization of ova by sperm.
the relatively small degree of homology shared by the x and y chromosomes.
the random and independent way in which each pair of homologous chromosomes lines up at the
metaphase plate during meiosis i.
the random distribution of the sister chromatids to the two daughter cells during anaphase ii.

Explanation:

• Option 1: Fertilization occurs after meiosis, so it cannot be the cause of independent assortment during meiosis.
• Option 2: The homology of X and Y chromosomes is not related to the independent assortment of chromosomes during meiosis.
• Option 3: During metaphase I of meiosis, homologous chromosome pairs line up randomly at the metaphase plate. This random alignment leads to the independent assortment of chromosomes.
• Option 4: The distribution of sister chromatids during anaphase II is related to the separation of sister chromatids, not the independent assortment of chromosomes.

Answer:

the random and independent way in which each pair of homologous chromosomes lines up at the metaphase plate during meiosis I.