CAIE A Level Biology 9700 · Inheritance

Inheritance: describe question

Describe5 marksChallenge

A student studying meiosis in a locust testis recorded the following descriptions of four cells at different stages. (Note: The descriptions are not in chronological order.)

Cell P: Condensed chromosomes are visible as bivalents. The nuclear envelope is breaking down. Chiasmata are present between some homologous chromosomes. Spindle microtubules are starting to form.

Cell Q: Chromosomes, each consisting of two sister chromatids, are aligned singly on the equatorial plate. Spindle fibers attach to the centromeres from opposite poles.

Cell R: Homologous chromosomes are being pulled to opposite poles by the spindle. Sister chromatids remain attached at the centromere. The cell is elongated.

Cell S: Two groups of chromosomes have reached the poles. Nuclear envelopes are reforming around each set. The chromosomes are decondensing. The cell membrane is beginning to invaginate.

Place these cells in the correct chronological order and describe the key events occurring at each stage.

0 words · 5 marks

No account needed for your first marks. Your answer is used only to mark it.

How this question is marked

5 marks, so the mark scheme is looking for about 5 separate creditworthy points. Making the same point twice in different words earns it once.

Describe means: Say what happens or what something is like, in order and with detail. You are not being asked why. If there is data, quote it: name the trend, then give figures with units at the points where it changes.

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