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Multiple Choice
Homologous pairs of chromosomes often __________.
A
carry different genes for different traits
B
differ in length
C
are not both present in diploid somatic cells
D
are paired up in the G2 phase of the cell cycle
E
contain different alleles
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of homologous chromosomes: Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes in a diploid organism that have the same structure and carry genes for the same traits, but they may have different versions of those genes, known as alleles.
Recognize that homologous chromosomes are similar in length, gene position, and centromere location, but they are not identical because they can carry different alleles for the same genes.
Recall that in diploid somatic cells, both homologous chromosomes are present, one inherited from each parent, making the cell diploid.
Identify that homologous chromosomes pair up during meiosis, not during the G2 phase of the cell cycle. The G2 phase is part of interphase where the cell prepares for mitosis, not meiosis.
Conclude that homologous chromosomes contain different alleles, which means they carry different versions of the same genes, leading to genetic variation in sexually reproducing organisms.