Question

what type of cell is present at the beginning of prophase i of meiosis?
○ a haploid cell that contains two sets of chromosomes - one from each parent
○ a haploid cell that contains one set of chromosomes
○ a diploid cell that contains one set of chromosomes
○ a diploid cell that contains two sets of chromosomes - one from each parent

Explanation:

To solve this, we recall meiosis basics: Meiosis starts with a diploid cell (has 2 sets of chromosomes, one from each parent) in Prophase I. Let's analyze each option:

• First option: A haploid cell can't have two sets (haploid is n, diploid is 2n). Eliminate.
• Second option: Meiosis starts with diploid, not haploid. Eliminate.
• Third option: Diploid cells have two sets (2n), not one. Eliminate.
• Fourth option: Correct, as meiosis begins with a diploid cell (2n) having two sets (maternal and paternal).

Answer:

D. a diploid cell that contains two sets of chromosomes - one from each parent