The longest stage of meiosis is

Options

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

Answer

To determine the longest stage of meiosis, we need to understand the stages of meiosis, particularly the prophase I stage, which is the longest phase of meiosis. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the solution:

### Step 1: Identify the Stages of Meiosis
Meiosis consists of two main stages: Meiosis I and Meiosis II. The longest stage occurs during Meiosis I, specifically in prophase I.

### Step 2: Understand Prophase I
Prophase I is divided into several sub-stages:
- **Leptotene**: Chromosomes begin to condense.
- **Zygotene**: Homologous chromosomes start pairing (synapsis).
- **Pachytene**: Crossing over occurs, where genetic material is exchanged between homologous chromosomes.
- **Diplotene**: The synaptonemal complex dissolves, and homologous chromosomes begin to separate. This stage can last for a long time, even months in some organisms.
- **Diakinesis**: Chromosomes condense further and prepare for metaphase.

### Step 3: Identify the Longest Stage
Among these sub-stages, **Diplotene** is recognized as the longest stage of prophase I and, consequently, the longest stage of meiosis overall. This is due to its extended duration in many organisms.

### Conclusion
Therefore, the longest stage of meiosis is **Diplotene**.

### Final Answer
The longest stage of meiosis is **Diplotene**.

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