Question

During which stage of prophase I do homologous chromosomes begin to separate but stay attached at chiasmata?

Options

• Zygotene

• Diplotene

• Leptotene

• Pachytene

Answer 1

In diplotene, the homologous chromosomes begin to separate but remain attached at the crossing points called 'chiasmata'. This partial separation with attachment at chiasmata is the characteristic feature distinguishing diplotene from pachytene, where homologs remain fully paired.