SAT Cell Division: Mitosis and Meiosis 2

Question 1

Which event occurs during meiosis I that distinguishes it from mitosis?

Accepted Answer

Separation of homologous chromosome pairs

Answer

During meiosis I, homologous chromosome pairs (bivalents) separate from each other, a process unique to meiosis that does not occur in mitosis.

Question 2

During which specific phase of meiosis does crossing over between homologous chromosomes occur?

Accepted Answer

Prophase I

Answer

Crossing over occurs during Prophase I when homologous chromosomes are tightly paired as tetrads (bivalents) at the synaptonemal complex.

Question 3

Which statement correctly distinguishes a diploid (2n) cell from a haploid (n) cell?

Accepted Answer

Diploid cells contain two complete sets of homologous chromosomes

Answer

Diploid cells contain two homologous sets of chromosomes (one maternal, one paternal), while haploid cells contain only one set.

Question 4

During anaphase of mitosis, what separates and moves toward opposite poles of the cell?

Accepted Answer

Sister chromatids

Answer

During mitotic anaphase, centromeres split and sister chromatids separate, pulled to opposite poles by shortening spindle fibers.

Question 5

The spindle apparatus is primarily composed of which cellular structure?

Accepted Answer

Microtubules (tubulin)

Answer

Spindle fibers are composed of microtubules — polymers of tubulin protein — that attach to chromosomes at the kinetochore and pull them apart.

SAT - Biology Subject Test Practice Test