The correct sequence of prophase–I of meiosis is :–

Options

A. Leptotene, pachytene, zygotene, diplotene, diakinesis
B. Leptotene, diplotene, pachytene, zygotene, diakinesis
C. Leptotene, zygotene, pachytene, diplotene, diakinesis
D. Leptotene, zygotene, diakinesis, diplotene

Answer

To determine the correct sequence of prophase I of meiosis, we need to understand the stages involved in this process. Prophase I is divided into five distinct stages, which occur in a specific order. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Lepotene**: This is the first stage of prophase I. During this phase, chromosomes begin to condense and become visible. They attach to the nuclear membrane via their telomeres.

2. **Zygotene**: Following leptotene, the zygotene stage begins. Here, homologous chromosomes start to pair up in a process known as synapsis. The synaptonemal complex forms between the paired homologous chromosomes.

3. **Pachytene**: After zygotene, we move to the pachytene stage. In this phase, the synaptonemal complex is fully formed, and crossing over occurs between non-sister chromatids. This exchange of genetic material increases genetic variation.

4. **Diplotene**: Next is the diplotene stage. During this phase, the synaptonemal complex begins to disassemble, and the homologous chromosomes start to separate slightly. However, they remain attached at points called chiasmata, where crossing over occurred.

5. **Diakinesis**: The final stage of prophase I is diakinesis. In this stage, the chromosomes condense further, becoming fully visible. The nuclear envelope breaks down, and the cell prepares to enter metaphase I.

### Correct Sequence:
The correct sequence of prophase I of meiosis is:
- **Leptotene → Zygotene → Pachytene → Diplotene → Diakinesis**

### Answer:
The correct answer is option 3: **Leptotene, Zygotene, Pachytene, Diplotene, Diakinesis.**

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