Which phase is defined by the separation of sister chromatids?

Which phase is defined by the separation of sister chromatids?

• A. Anaphase II
• B. Anaphase I
• C. Telophase II
• D. Metaphase II

Answer: (A)

Sister chromatids separate during Anaphase II. In meiosis II, after metaphase II aligns the chromosomes, the centromeres split and the chromatids are pulled apart toward opposite poles by shortening kinetochore microtubules. This is similar to mitotic anaphase, where the sister chromatids separate. In contrast, Anaphase I involves the separation of homologous chromosomes, not sister chromatids, so the chromatids stay attached at the centromere. Metaphase II is when chromosomes (each still consisting of two chromatids) line up at the center, but the chromatids have not yet separated. Telophase II occurs after separation, when the chromatids have already moved to the poles and de-condense, and nuclei begin to form.

Sister chromatids separate during Anaphase II. In meiosis II, after metaphase II aligns the chromosomes, the centromeres split and the chromatids are pulled apart toward opposite poles by shortening kinetochore microtubules. This is similar to mitotic anaphase, where the sister chromatids separate.

In contrast, Anaphase I involves the separation of homologous chromosomes, not sister chromatids, so the chromatids stay attached at the centromere. Metaphase II is when chromosomes (each still consisting of two chromatids) line up at the center, but the chromatids have not yet separated. Telophase II occurs after separation, when the chromatids have already moved to the poles and de-condense, and nuclei begin to form.