The formation of chiasma is seen during

Options

A. leptotene
B. zygotene
C. pachytene
D. diplotene

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Chiasma**: Chiasma is the point where two homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material during meiosis. This process is essential for genetic diversity.

2. **Identifying the Process**: The formation of chiasma occurs during meiosis, specifically during the prophase stage. Meiosis consists of two main phases: meiosis I and meiosis II, with prophase I being the stage where crossing over occurs.

3. **Phases of Prophase I**: Prophase I of meiosis is divided into several stages:
- Leptotene
- Zygotene
- Pachytene
- Diplotene
- Diakinesis

4. **Location of Chiasma Formation**: Chiasma is specifically formed during the diplotene stage of prophase I. During this stage, the homologous chromosomes are paired, and the crossing over occurs, leading to the formation of the X-shaped structure known as chiasma.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the formation of chiasma is seen during prophase I of meiosis, particularly in the diplotene stage.

**Final Answer**: The formation of chiasma is seen during prophase I of meiosis, specifically in the diplotene stage.

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