Homologous chromosomes begin to separate during

Options

A. Diakinesis
B. Leptotene
C. Zygotene
D. Diplotene

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks at which stage homologous chromosomes begin to separate during meiosis.

2. **Identifying the Stages of Prophase I**: Prophase I of meiosis consists of several sub-stages:
- Leptotene
- Zygotene
- Pachytene
- Diplotene
- Diakinesis

3. **Analyzing Each Stage**:
- **Leptotene**: Chromosomes start to condense, but homologous chromosomes are not yet paired.
- **Zygotene**: Homologous chromosomes begin to pair up (synapsis) but are still connected.
- **Pachytene**: Homologous chromosomes are fully paired and crossing over occurs.
- **Diplotene**: The synaptonemal complex dissolves, and homologous chromosomes begin to separate, although they remain connected at the chiasmata (the points where crossing over occurred).
- **Diakinesis**: Chromosomes condense further and prepare for metaphase, but separation is not the focus here.

4. **Conclusion**: The correct answer is that homologous chromosomes begin to separate during the **Diplotene** stage of Prophase I.

### Final Answer:
Homologous chromosomes begin to separate during **Diplotene**.

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