Question

Assertion: Stage between two meiotic divisions (I \& II) is referred as interkinesis. Reason: Interkinesis is short lived phase.

Short answer

Assertion is True & Reason is True but the Reason is NOT the correct explanation for the Assertion.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Meiosis

Apprehend the basic concepts of cell division, particularly the process of meiosis. Meiosis occurs in two distinct stages: Meiosis I and II.

Understanding Interkinesis

Interkinesis denotes the brief interval between the two meiotic divisions. It occurs after the first meiotic division (Meiosis I) and before the second meiotic division (Meiosis II).

Analyzing the Assertion and the Reason

Assertion is a fact stating that the stage between two meiotic divisions is referred as interkinesis. It's a correct statement. The Reason given is that interkinesis is a short-lived phase, which is also a fact. However, the duration of interkinesis is irrelevant to its definition as the phase between Meiosis I and II. Hence, the reason doesn't necessarily justify the assertion.

Key concepts

Understanding Meiosis

Meiosis is a special form of cell division necessary for sexual reproduction. Unlike mitosis, which occurs in somatic cells and results in two identical daughter cells, meiosis involves two successive divisions that produce four genetically unique daughter cells, each with half the amount of genetic material of the parent cell.

This reduction in chromosome number is critical for maintaining the species-specific chromosome number across generations. During fertilization, when two gametes (sperm and egg cells) fuse, the diploid state is restored.

In Meiosis I, homologous chromosomes are separated, and in Meiosis II, which follows interkinesis without any replication of DNA, sister chromatids are separated. By understanding meiosis, students gain insights into the fundamental processes of genetics, including independent assortment and crossing over, that contribute to genetic diversity.

Exploring Cell Division

Cell division is a fundamental biological process that allows organisms to grow, repair damaged tissues, and reproduce. There are two primary types of cell division: mitosis and meiosis.

Mitosis is the process by which a single cell divides to produce two identical daughter cells, and it is central to growth and tissue regeneration. On the other hand, meiosis is unique to germ cells, which are specialized for reproduction.

Understanding cell division helps students appreciate how life is sustained and how cells function to maintain complex biological systems. It lays the foundation for comprehending more intricate concepts in biology, such as development, heredity, and evolutionary biology.

Meiotic Divisions Details

Meiotic divisions are comprised of Meiosis I and Meiosis II, each with distinct phases including prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Meiosis I divides homologous chromosomes, reducing the ploidy level from diploid to haploid, while Meiosis II resembles a mitotic division, separating the sister chromatids.

Between these two meiotic divisions lies interkinesis, a brief resting stage which lacks DNA synthesis. The purpose of interkinesis is not fully understood, but it is a transition period allowing cells to prepare for the second meiotic division.

Interkinesis highlights the intricacies of meiotic processes and underscores the precision required for successful sexual reproduction. By studying these meiotic divisions, students learn about the pivotal events that ensure genetic variation, which is a cornerstone of biological evolution.