During____, homologous chromosomes separate and dyads move to opposite poles of the spindle.

Options

A. prophase I
B. prophase II
C. metaphase I
D. anaphase I

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Cell Cycle**: The cell cycle consists of various stages, including interphase and the mitotic phase (M phase), which includes both mitosis and meiosis.

2. **Identifying Meiosis**: The question specifically refers to meiosis, a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half and leads to the formation of gametes.

3. **Stages of Meiosis**: Meiosis is divided into two main stages: Meiosis I and Meiosis II. The focus here is on Meiosis I, which is further divided into several phases: prophase I, metaphase I, anaphase I, and telophase I.

4. **Homologous Chromosomes**: During meiosis, homologous chromosomes (pairs of chromosomes, one from each parent) undergo a process called synapsis, where they come together to form tetrads.

5. **Anaphase I**: The question specifically asks about the separation of homologous chromosomes. This occurs during anaphase I of meiosis.

6. **Movement of Dyads**: In anaphase I, the spindle fibers pull the homologous chromosomes apart, and as they separate, each tetrad becomes a dyad (a pair of sister chromatids).

7. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct answer to the question is: "During anaphase I, homologous chromosomes separate and dyads move to opposite poles of the spindle."

**Final Answer**: During anaphase I, homologous chromosomes separate and dyads move to opposite poles of the spindle.

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