5. Synapsis occurs during ____________.
a. Telophase I
b. Anaphase II
c. Diplonema
d. Pachynema
e. Diakinesis
e. Diakinesis
To determine the correct answer to this question, let's break down the options and understand what each term refers to:
a. Telophase I: Telophase I is a phase in meiosis where the chromosomes reach the opposite poles of the dividing cell, and the nuclear envelope starts to form around them. It is not the correct answer.
b. Anaphase II: Anaphase II is a phase in meiosis where the sister chromatids separate and move towards opposite poles of the cell. It is not the correct answer.
c. Diplonema: Diplonema is a stage in meiosis I where the homologous chromosomes continue to separate and become more condensed. It is not the correct answer.
d. Pachynema: Pachynema is a substage of prophase I in meiosis, where synapsis occurs. Synapsis is the process where homologous chromosomes pair up and form structures called tetrads. So, pachynema is a possible correct answer.
e. Diakinesis: Diakinesis is a substage of prophase I in meiosis where the nuclear envelope breaks down completely and the chromosomes continue to condense. It is not the correct answer.
Based on the explanations, the correct answer is most likely d. Pachynema, as this is the phase during which synapsis occurs.