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CRASH NOTES: NEET 2024

JHJHJ
Sub.: BIOLOGY Topic: CELL CYCLE AND CELL DIVISION
QUICK NOTES

CELL CYCLE:

• Sequence of events→ cell duplicates its genome→ synthesises other constituents of the
cell→ divides into two daughter cells

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• Replication of DNA → under genetic control (CDK & Cyclins)

PHASES OF CELL CYCLE: → Interphase (G1, S and G2) → M phase (Mitosis)

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QUIESCENT STAGE (G0): Inactive stage → Cells do not divide→ Exit G1 phase→
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Metabolically active → Heart cells

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Equational division → no. of chromosome in parent & progeny remains same

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M PHASE:
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• CYTOKINESIS: followed by karyokinesis (prophase, metaphase, anaphase & telophase) →

separation of cytoplasm→ end of cell division → cell divided into 2 daughter cells

Significance of Mitosis: production of diploid daughter cell→ growth→ restores nucleo-

cytoplasmic ratio→ cell repair

MEIOSIS

Reductional division → reduces chromosome number by half

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MEIOSIS I

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PROPHASE I METAPHASE I ANAPHASE I TELOPHASE I

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Prophase I:
Leptotene: compaction of chromosomes
Zygotene: synapsis, synaptonemal complex, bivalent/tetrad
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Pachytene: crossing over, recombinase enzyme
Diplotene: dissolution of synaptonemal complex, chiasmata
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formation
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Diakinesis: terminalisation of chiasmata

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Metaphase I: Bivalent chromosomes align on the equatorial plate

Anaphase l: Homologous chromosomes separate
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Telophase I: Dyad of cells, interkinesis

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Significance of Meiosis: conserves specific chromosome number of each species→ increases genetic variability

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KEY POINTS TO REVISE

1. Cell division → Very important process in all living organisms. @ Continuity of life
2. During the division of a cell → DNA replication and cell growth take place.
3. Cell division, DNA replication, and Cell growth→ Take place in a coordinated way to ensure correct
division and formation of progeny cells containing intact genomes.
4. Cell cycle → The sequence of events by which a cell duplicates its genome, synthesises the other
constituents of the cell and eventually divides into two daughter cells.
5. Cell growth (in terms of cytoplasmic increase) is a continuous process
6. Cell division requirement → The replicated chromosomes (DNA) are then distributed to daughter
nuclei by a complex series of events. These events are under genetic control. (Cyclins & CDK kinase)
7. A typical eukaryotic cell cycle (Human cells) in culture→
Divide once in every 24 hours

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(23 Hours Interphase + 1 Hour M Phase)
8. Duration of cell cycle →
Vary from organism to organism and also from cell type

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to cell type.
Yeast cell cycle in only about 90 minutes.

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9. The cell cycle is divided into two basic phases:

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o Interphase
o M Phase (Mitosis phase)
10. The M Phase → Actual cell division or mitosis occurs
11. Interphase → Represents the phase between two
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successive M phases.
95% of the duration of cell cycle.
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It is the resting phase → during which the cell is preparing for division
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Cell growth and DNA replication takes place in orderly manner.

Three phases → G1 Phase + S Phase + G2 Phase = Interphase
G1 – Means Gap 1; S – Means Synthesis; G2 – Means Gap 2
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12. The M Phase →

Starts with the nuclear division (karyokinesis) Ends with division of cytoplasm (cytokinesis).
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13. G1 phase →
Interval between mitosis and initiation of DNA replication (S phase)
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Cell is metabolically active and continuously grows @ Protein & RNA Synthesis extensively
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14. S or synthesis phase

DNA synthesis or replication takes place. Amount of DNA per cell doubles.
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2C DNA becomes → 4C.

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(But chromosome number remain same) Each chromosome have double amount of DNA; 2n Cell of
G1 phase is Still 2n is S phase
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DNA replication begins in the nucleus

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Centriole duplicates in the cytoplasm. (In animal cell)

15. G2 phase
Proteins are synthesised;
Preparation for mitosis (cell growth) continues. @ ATP storage takes place & Spindle fibre
synthesized
16. G0 Phase →
The cells that do not divide further exit G1 phase to enter an inactive stage called quiescent stage
(G0 ) of the cell cycle.
Cells in this stage remain metabolically active. Not proliferate unless required

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Considered Paused or suspended in Cell cycle. (NEET 2019 NTA Answer)
17. In animals, mitotic cell division is only seen in the diploid somatic cells.
18. In plants mitotic divisions seen in both haploid and diploid cells.
19. M PHASE
Most dramatic period of the cell cycle,
Involving a major reorganisation of all components of the cell.
20. Equational division →
Number of chromosomes in the parent and progeny cells is the same @ It’s MITOSIS
21. Mitosis divided into four stages of nuclear division, it is very essential to understand that cell division
is a progressive process and very clear-cut lines cannot be drawn between various stages.
22. Mitosis is divided into the following four
stages:
1 Prophase

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2 Metaphase
3 Anaphase
4 Telophase

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23. Prophase → First stage of mitosis
Initiation of condensation of chromosomal

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material.
The centriole begins to move towards

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opposite poles of the cell.
The completion of prophase marked by the
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following events:
Chromosomal material → Compact mitotic
chromosomes.
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Chromosomes → Two chromatids attached at

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the centromere.
Initiation of the assembly of mitotic spindle @
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the microtubules
In Late prophase → Golgi body, ER, nucleolus
and the nuclear envelope disappears
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24. Metaphase
Begins when nuclear membrane completely disappeared
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Chromosomes are spread through the cytoplasm of the cell.

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Condensation of chromosomes is completed

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@ Maximum condensation ; Visible under microscope

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Morphology of chromosomes is most easily studied.

Metaphase chromosome → two sister chromatids & a centromere.
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Small disc-shaped structures at the surface of the centromeres are called kinetochores.
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Sites of attachment of spindle fibres @ Protein Plates

Metaphase is characterised by all the chromosomes coming to lie at the equator with one
chromatid of each chromosome connected by its kinetochore to spindle fibres from one pole and
its sister chromatid connected by its kinetochore to spindle fibres from the opposite pole
Metaphase plate → The plane of alignment of the chromosomes at metaphase
The key features of metaphase are:
Spindle fibres attach to kinetochores of chromosomes. ;
Chromosomes are moved to spindle equator and get aligned along metaphase plate through spindle
fibres to both poles.

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25. Anaphase
At the onset of anaphase
o Splitting of chromosome @ Splitting of Centromere
o Two daughter chromatids, now referred to as chromosomes of the future daughter nuclei,
o Daughter chromatid / New chromosome begin their migration towards the two opposite
poles.
o As each chromosome moves away from the equatorial plate
26. Telophase
Final stage of mitosis
At the beginning of telophase
o The chromosomes that have reached their respective poles
o They de-condense and lose their individuality.
The individual chromosomes can no longer be seen and chromatin material tends to collect in a mass

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in the two poles
Nuclear envelope assembles around the chromosome clusters.

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Nucleolus, golgi complex and ER reform.
27. Cytokinesis → Division of cytoplasm after karyokinesis
In an animal cell → Cell furrow method

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(The furrow gradually deepens and ultimately joins in the centre dividing the cell cytoplasm into two)

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In a plant cells → Cell plate method
28. IN PLANT CELLS →
Cell wall formation starts in the centre of the cell and grows outward to meet the existing lateral
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walls.
The formation of the new cell wall begins with the formation of a simple precursor, called the cell-
plate that represents the middle lamella between the walls of two adjacent cells.
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Golgi apparatus plays important role in cell wall formation by secreting wall materials.
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Phragmoplast is precursor of cell plate

29. In some organisms →
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karyokinesis is not followed by cytokinesis as a result of which multinucleate condition arises leading
to the formation of syncytium
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(e.g., liquid endosperm in coconut).

30. Significance of Mitosis →
Mitosis or the equational division is usually restricted to the diploid cells only.
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However, in some lower plants and in some social insects haploid cells also divide by mitosis.
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Mitosis usually results in the production of diploid daughter cells with identical genetic
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complement.
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MAIN DIVISION OF GROWTH

Reason of mitosis →
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Cell growth results in disturbing the ratio between the nucleus and the cytoplasm. It therefore
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becomes essential for the cell to divide to restore the nucleo-cytoplasmic ratio. A very significant
contribution of mitosis is cell repair.
Mitotic divisions in the meristematic tissues
31. MEIOSIS
Specialised kind of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half results in the
production of haploid daughter cells.
Meiosis ensures the production of haploid phase in the life cycle of sexually reproducing organisms
whereas fertilisation restores the diploid phase.

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Takes place during sporogenesis & gametogenesis respectively in plants and animals. This leads to
the formation of haploid spores and gametes.
In Plants → SPORIC MEIOSIS
In Animals → GAMETIC MEIOSIS
In Lower Plants → ZYGOTIC MEIOSIS
32. The key features of meiosis →
Meiosis involves two sequential cycles of nuclear and cell division called meiosis I and meiosis II
but only a single cycle of DNA replication.
Meiosis I is initiated after the parental chromosomes have replicated to produce identical sister
chromatids at the S phase. l Four haploid cells are formed at the end of meiosis II.
33. MEIOSIS
Prophase I → Longest phase of meiosis

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Anaphase II → Shortest Phase of meiosis
34. PROPHASE I
Subdivided into the following five phases based on chromosomal behaviour, i.e., Leptotene,

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Zygotene, Pachytene, Diplotene and Diakinesis.
35. Leptotene →

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compaction of chromosomes continues
36. Zygotene →

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Chromosomes start pairing together and this process of association is called synapsis.
Such paired chromosomes are called homologous chromosomes.
Synaptonemal complex → a pair of synapsed homologous chromosomes is called a bivalent or a
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tetrad.
37. Pachytene →
Bivalent chromosomes now clearly appears as tetrads. @ 4 strand stage
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This stage is characterised by the appearance of RECOMBINATION NODULES, the sites at which
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crossing over occurs between non-sister chromatids of the homologous chromosomes.

38. Crossing over is the exchange of genetic material between two homologous chromosomes.
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39. Crossing over is also an enzyme-mediated process and the enzyme involved is called recombinase.
40. Crossing over leads to recombination of genetic material on the two chromosomes.
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41. Recombination between homologous chromosomes is completed by the end of pachytene, leaving
the chromosomes linked at the sites of crossing over.
42. Diplotene →
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The dissolution of the synaptonemal complex The tendency of the recombined homologous
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chromosomes of the bivalents to separate from each other except at the sites of crossovers. These
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X-shaped structures, are called chiasmata.

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In oocytes of some vertebrates, diplotene can last for months or years.

43. Diakinesis →
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The final stage of meiotic prophase I is DIAKINESIS.

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This is marked by terminalisation of chiasmata.

During this phase the chromosomes are fully condensed and the meiotic spindle is assembled to
prepare the homologous chromosomes for separation.
By the end of diakinesis, the nucleolus disappears and the nuclear envelope also breaks down.
Diakinesis represents transition to metaphase.
44. Metaphase I:
The bivalent chromosomes align on the equatorial plate
The microtubules from the opposite poles of the spindle attach to the pair of homologous
chromosomes.

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45. Anaphase I:
The homologous chromosomes separate, while sister chromatids remain associated at their
centromeres
@ No splitting of centromere
46. Telophase I:
The nuclear membrane and nucleolus reappear, cytokinesis follows and this is called as DYAD OF
CELLS
47. INTERKINESIS →
The stage between the two meiotic divisions is called and is generally short lived.
S Phase absent; G1 + G2 Phase Only
Interkinesis is followed by prophase II, a much simpler prophase than prophase I.
48. Meiosis II →

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Meiosis II resembles a normal mitosis.
Divided into Prophase II, Metaphase II, Anaphase II & Telophase II
49. Prophase II:

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The nuclear membrane disappears by the end of prophase II
The chromosomes again become compact.

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50. Metaphase II:
Chromosomes align at the equator and the microtubules from opposite poles of the spindle get

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attached to the kinetochores of sister chromatids.
51. ANAPHASE II:
It begins with the simultaneous splitting of the centromere of each chromosome
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allowing them to move toward opposite poles of the cell
52. Telophase II:
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Meiosis ends with telophase II, in which the two groups of chromosomes once again get enclosed by
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a nuclear envelope; cytokinesis follows resulting in the formation of tetrad of cells i.e., four haploid
daughter cells
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53. Meiosis is the mechanism by which conservation of specific chromosome number of each species
is achieved across generations
54. Meiosis increases the genetic variability in the population of organisms from one generation to the
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next. Variations are very important for the process of evolution.

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PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

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1. Which one of the following is the quiescent stage of DNA application in most eukaryotic cells occurs, only
cell cycle? (NEET 2023 Manipur) during a specific part of the cell division cycle called the
(1) M (2) G2 DNA synthesis phase or S phase. In animal cells, the
(3) G1 (4) G0 duplication of centrioles takes place during the S phase
Answer: (4) of the cell cycle.
G0 (Gap 0) - This is a stage where cells are neither 11th NCERT, Page No. 163
dividing nor preparing to divide. Instead, they are
5. The fruit fly has 8 chromosomes (2n) in each cell.
performing their designated functions and are in a state
During interphase of Mitosis if the number of
of dormancy or quiescence. chromosomes at G1 phase is 8, what would be the
number of chromosomes after S phase? (NEET 2021)
2. Match List I with List II. (NEET 2023, 2021) (1) 4 (2) 32 (3) 8 (4) 16
List I List II Answer: (3)
S phase of the cell cycle is a synthesis phase in which

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A. M phase I. Proteins are synthesized
amount of DNA increases but the number of
B. G2 phase II. Inactive phase
chromosomes remain constant. So the number of
C. Quiescent III. Interval between mitosis chromosomes will remain same as G1 phase that is 8. 11th

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stage and initiation of DNA NCERT, Page No. 163 (concept)
replication

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D. G1 phase IV. Equational division 6. Match the following events that occur in their
Choose the correct answer from the options given respective phases of cell cycle and select the correct

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below: option: (NEET 2020 PHASE II)
(1) A-IV, B-II, C-I, D-III (2) A-IV, B-I, C-II, D-III Column I Column II
(a) G1 phase (i) Cell grows and
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(3) A-II, B-IV, C-I, D-III (4) A-III, B-II, C-IV, D-I
Answer: (2) organelle duplication
(b) S phase (ii) DNA replication and
11th NCERT, Page No. 163, 164
chromosome
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duplication
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3. Given below are two statements: (NEET 2023)

(c) G2 phase (iii) Cytoplasmic growth
Statement I: During G0 phase of cell cycle, the cell is
metabolically inactive. (d) Metaphase in (iv) Alignment of
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Statement II: The centrosome undergoes duplication M-phase chromosomes

during S phase of interphase. (1) (a-ii) (b-iii) (c-iv) (d-i) (2) (a-iii) (b-iv) (c-i) (d-ii)
(3) (a-iv) (b-i) (c-ii) (d-iii) (4) (a-i) (b-ii) (c-iii) (d-iv)
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In the light of the above statements, choose the most

appropriate answer from the options given below: Answer: (4)
(1) Both statement I and II are incorrect. 11th NCERT, Page No. 163
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(2) Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect.

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(3) Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct. 7. Some dividing cells exit the cell cycle and enter
(4) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct. vegetative inactive stage. This is called quiescent stage
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Answer: (3) (G0). This process at the end of: (NEET 2020)
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Statement I is incorrect because during G0 phase of cell (1) S phase (2) G2 phase
cycle, the cell is metabolically active but do not divide. (3) M phase (4) G1 phase
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11th NCERT, Page No. 163, 164 Answer: (4)

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Some dividing cells exit the cell cycle and enter

4. Among eukaryotes, replication of DNA takes place vegetative inactive stage called quiescent stage (G0).
in- (NEET 2016 Phase II, NEET 2023) 11th NCERT, Page No. 163, 164
OR
The centriole undergoes duplication during: (NEET 8. Identify the correct statement with regard to G 1
2021) phase (Gap 1) of interphase. (NEET 2020)
(1) S phase (2) G1 phase (1) Cell is metabolically active, grows but does not
(3) G2 phase (4) M phase replicate its DNA.
Answer: (1) (2) Nuclear Division takes place.
(3) DNA synthesis or replication takes place.

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(4) Reorganization of all cell components takes place. (3) Prophase (4) Metaphase
Answer: (1) Answer: (1)
During G1 phase the cell is metabolically active and
continuously grows but does not replicate its DNA. DNA 14. Which one of the following never occurs during
synthesis takes place in S-phase. Nuclear division occurs mitotic cell division? (NEET 2022)
during karyokinesis. Reorganization of all cell (1) Spindle fibres attach to kinetochores of
components takes place in M-phase. chromosomes
11th NCERT, Page No. 163
(2) Movement of centrioles towards opposite poles
(3) Pairing of homologous chromosomes
9. In a mitotic cycle, the correct sequence of phases is
(4) Coiling and condensation of the chromatids
(NEET 2020, NEET 2019)
Answer: (3)
(1) G1, G2, S, M (2) S, G1, G2, M
(3) G1, S, G2, M (4) M, G1, G2, S Pairing of homologous chromosomes occurs during
prophase I of meiosis.

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Answer: (3) In a mitotic cycle, the correct sequence of
phases is G1, S, G2, M. The first three phases, i.e., G1, S, Coiling and condensation of chromatids, spindle fibres
G2 occurring during interphase whereas the M-phase is attachment to the kinetochores and movement of
the period of actual cell division. centrioles towards opposite poles occur in both mitosis

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11th NCERT, Page No. 163 and meiosis.

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10. Cells in G0 phase: (NEET 2019) 15. Select the incorrect statement with respect to
(1) Exit the cell cycle (2) Enter the cell cycle mitosis: (NEET 2022)

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(3) Suspend the cell cycle (4) Terminate the cell cycle (1) Splitting of centromere occurs at anaphase.
Answer: (1)
(2) All the chromosomes lie at the equator at
11th NCERT, Page No. 164
metaphase.
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(3) Spindle fibres attach to centromere of
11. DNA replication in bacteria occurs (NEET 2017)
chromosomes.
(1) During S-phase (2) Within nucleus
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(4) Chromosomes decondense at telophase.

(3) Prior to fusion (4) Just before transcription
Answer: (3)
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Answer: (3)
In mitosis, the metaphase is characterised by all the
In prokaryotes like bacteria, DNA replication occurs
chromosomes coming to lie at the equator with one
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prior to fission. But in eukaryotes, DNA replication takes

chromatid of each chromosome connected by its
place during S phase.
kinetochore to spindle fibres from one pole and its
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sister chromatid connected by its kinetochore to

12. When cell has stalled DNA replication fork, which
spindle fibres from the opposite pole.
checkpoint should be predominantly activated? (NEET
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2016 PHASE II)

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16. Attachment of spindle fibres to kinetochores of

(1) G1/S (2) G2/M
chromosomes becomes evident in: (NEET 2020 PHASE
(3) M (4) Both G2/M and M
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II)
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Answer: (2)
(1) Anaphase (2) Telophase
If cell has stalled DNA replication fork, it implies that it
(3) Prophase (4) Metaphase
has crossed CG1 or G1 cyclin cell cycle check point and
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Answer: (4) Mitosis is a type of cell division in which a

has entered S-phase of cell cycle, where it is preparing
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parent cell divides and forms two daughter cells that

for chromosome replication. Afterwards it will enter G2
are identical to the parent cell.
phase and will soon approach second check point called
mitotic cyclin (CM) which lies between G2 and M-
17. Which of the following options gives the correct
phase).
sequence of events during mitosis? (NEET 2017)
13. Doubling of the number of chromosomes can be
achieved by disrupting mitotic cell division soon after:
(NEET 2023 Manipur)
(1) Anaphase (2) Telophase

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(1) Condensation → Nuclear membrane between them. Synapsis takes place during prophase I,
disassembly → Arrangement at equator → Centromere of zygotene of meiosis.
division → Segregation → Telophase
(2) Condensation → Crossing over → Nuclear 21. Assertion (A): The growth of the multicellular
membrane disassembly → Segregation → Telophase organism is due to mitosis.
Reason (R): Mitosis is also called as equational division
(3) Condensation → Arrangement at
and it offers genetic stability.
equator → Centromere division → Segregation →
In light of the above statements choose the correct
Telophase answer from the options given below:
(4) Condensation → Nuclear membrane (1) (A) is correct but (R) is not correct.
disassembly → Crossing over → Segregation → (2) (A) is not correct but (R) is correct.
Telophase (3 Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct
Answer: (1) explanation of (A).

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11th NCERT, Page No. 165, 166 (4) Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct
explanation of (A).
Answer: (3)
18. Anaphase Promoting Complex (APC) is a protein

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degradation machinery necessary for proper mitosis of
22. The dissolution of synaptonemal complex occurs
animal cell. If APC is defective in a human cell, which
during: (NEET 2023 Manipur, NEET 2020)

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of the following is expected to occur? (NEET 2017)
OR
(1) Chromosomes will be fragmented Which stage of meiosis can last for months or years in

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(2) Chromosomes will not segregate the oocytes of some vertebrates? (NEET 2022 PHASE
(3) Recombination of chromosome arms will occur II)
(4) Chromosomes will not condense. (1) Zygotene (2) Pachytene
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Answer: (2) (3) Diplotene (4) Diakinesis
During anaphase, Anaphase Promoting Complex (APC) Answer: (3)
is a protein necessary for separation of daughter Diplotene is recognised by the dissolution of the
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chromosomes. A defective APC will cause the synaptonemal complex and the tendency of the
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chromosomes fail to segregate during anaphase. recombined homologous chromosomes of the bivalents
to separate from each other.
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19. Spindle fibres attach on to (NEET 2016) - In oocytes of some vertebrates, diplotene lasts for
(1) Centromere of the chromosome months or years. This stage is dictyotene stage
(2) Kinetosome of the chromosome
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(3) Telomere of the chromosome 23. The process of appearance of recombination

(4) Kinetochore of the chromosome nodules occurs at which sub stage of prophase I in
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Answer: (4) meiosis? (NEET 2023)

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Attachment of microtubules to chromosomes is OR

The stage during which separation of the paired
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mediated by kinetochores, which actively monitor

homologous chromosomes begins is- (NEET 2018)
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spindle formation and prevent premature anaphase

onset during mitosis. (1) Pachytene (2) Diplotene
(3) Diakinesis (4) Zygotene
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Answer: (1)
20. Which of the following is not a characteristic
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Recombination nodules appear during the pachytene

feature during mitosis in somatic cells? (NEET 2016) stage of prophase I in meiosis. These nodules are
(1) Chromosome movement (2) Synapsis thought to be involved in crossing over, a process
(3) Spindle fibres (4) Disappearance of nucleolus where homologous chromosomes exchange genetic
Answer: (2) material. This leads to genetic recombination, which is a
Synapsis is the pairing of two homologous significant source of genetic variation in sexually
chromosomes that occurs during meiosis. It allows reproducing organisms.
matching-up of homologous pairs prior to their
segregation, and possible chromosomal crossover 24. Select the correct statements. (NEET 2023)
(A) Tetrad formation is seen during Leptotene.

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(B) During Anaphase, the centromeres split and (4) Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct
chromatids separate. explanation of (A).
(C) Terminalization takes place during Pachytene. Answer: (4)
(D) Nucleolus, Golgi complex and ER are reformed
during Telophase. 28. Select the correct sequence of events occurring
(E) Crossing over takes place between sister chromatids during Prophase-I of Meiosis-I: (NEET 2022 PHASE II)
of homologous chromosome. (a) Nuclear envelope breakdown
Choose the correct answer from the options given (b) Synaptonemal complex formation
below: (c) Compaction of chromosomes
(1) B and E only (2) A and C only (d) Terminalisation of chiasmata
(3) B and D only (4) A, C and E only (e) Crossing over
Answer: (3) Choose the most appropriate answer from the options
given below:
25. Select the correct sequence of sub stages of (1) (c) → (b) → (e) → (d) → (a)

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Prophase-I of meiotic division (NEET 2023) (2) (c) → (a) → (b) → (d) → (e)
(A) Zygotene (B) Pachytene (3) (b) → (c) → (a) → (d) → (e)
(4) (c) → (a) → (b) → (e) → (d)

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(C) Diakinesis (D) Leptotene
(E) Diplotene Answer: (1)
Choose the correct answer from the following options

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29. In meiosis, crossing over and exchange of genetic
given below:
material between homologous chromosomes are

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(1) D, B, A, E, C (2) A, B, D, E, C catalyzed by the enzyme. (NEET 2022 PHASE II)
(3) D, A, B, E, C (4) A, D, B, C, E (1) Phosphorylase (2) Recombinase
Answer: (3) (3) Transferase (4) Polymerase
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Answer: (2)
26. In prophase I of Meiosis, chromosomes start In meiosis I, during pachytene, crossing over occurs
pairing together and synapsis takes place. This process between the non-sister chromatids of the homologous
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occurs during which of the following stage? (NEET chromosomes. The exchange of genetic material (DNA)
2022) between the non-sister chromatids of the homologous
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OR chromosomes is known as crossing over. It leads to the

During Meiosis 1, in which stage synapsis takes place? recombination of genetic material which involves a
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(NEET 2020 PHASE) mutual exchange of the corresponding segments of

(1) Pachytene (2) Diplotene non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes. It
(3) Leptotene (4) Zygotene
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takes place by breakage and reunion of chromatid

Answer: (4) segments.
Zygotene: Pairing of homologous chromosomes by the
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process of synapsis and formation of the synaptonemal 30. Identify the correct sequence of events during
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complex. Prophase I of meiosis: (NEET 2022 PHASE II)

(a) Synapsis of homologous chromosomes
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(b) Chromosomes become gradually visible under

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27. Given below are two statements: One is labelled as

Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R). microscope
(NEET 2022 PHASE II) (c) Crossing over between non-sister chromatids of
a

Assertion (A): The beginning of diplotene is recognised homologous chromosomes

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by the dissolution of the synaptonemal complex and (d) Terminalisation of chiasmata

formation of X shaped structures called chiasmata. (e) Dissolution of synaptonemal complex
Reason (R): In oocytes of some vertebrates, diplotene Choose the correct answer from the options given
can last for months or years. below:
In the light of the above statements, choose the correct (1) (a) → (c) → (d) → (e) → (b)
answer from the options given below: (2) (a) → (b) → (c) → (d) → (e)
(1) (A) is correct but (R) is not correct. (3) (b) → (c) → (d) → (e) → (a)
(2) (A) is not correct but (R) is correct. (4) (b) → (a) → (c) → (e) → (d)
(3) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct Answer (4)
explanation of (A).

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Correct sequence of events during Prophase I of Diakinesis is the final stage of meiotic prophase-I. In this
meiosis is: (b) → (a) → (c) → (e) → (d) stage, two homologous chromosomes do not separate
completely but remain attached together at one or more
31. Bivalent or Tetrad formation is a characteristic points as indicated by ‘X’ arrangement known as
feature observed during (NEET 2022 PHASE II) chiasmata. The displacement of chiasmata is termed as
(1) Chiasmata in zygotene stage terminalisation of chiasmata which is completed in
(2) Synaptonemal complex in zygotene stage diakinesis phase.
(3) Chiasmata in Diplotene stage
(4) Synaptonemal complex in Pachytene stage 35. Match the following with respect to meiosis (NEET
Answer: (2) 2020)
Bivalent or tetrad formation is called synapsis which is (A) Zygotene (i) Terminalization
accompanied by the formation of complex structure (B) Pachytene (ii) Chiasmata
called synaptonemal complex. (C) Diplotene (iii) Crossing over

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(D) Diakinesis (iv) Synapsis
32. With respect to metaphase, which of the following Select the correct option from the following-
(1) (A-iv) (B-iii) (C-ii) (D-i) (2) (A-iii) (B-iv) (C-i) (D-ii)
statements is incorrect? (NEET 2022 PHASE II)

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(3) (A-i) (B-ii) (C-iv) (D-iii) (4) (A-ii) (B-iv) (C-iii) (D-i)
(1) Chromosomes lie at the equator of the cell
Answer: (1)
(2) Complete disintegration of nuclear envelope takes Zygotene → Synapsis

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place Pachytene → Crossing over
(3) Chromosomes are highly condensed Diplotene → Chiasmata formation

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(4) Metaphase chromosomes are made up of four sister Diakinesis → Terminalisation
chromatids held together by centromere
Answer: (4) 36. After meiosis l, the resultant daughter cells have
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Metaphase chromosomes are not made up of four (NEET 2019)
sister chromatids held together by the centromere. (1) Same amount of DNA as in the parent cell in S
Instead, metaphase chromosomes consist of two sister (2) Twice the amount of DNA in comparison to haploid
1

chromatids held together by the centromere. The sister gamete

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chromatids are identical copies of a single chromosome (3) Same amount of DNA in comparison to haploid
gamete
that have been replicated during the S phase of the cell
(4) Four times the amount of DNA in comparison to
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cycle.
haploid gamete
Answer: (2)
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33. The appearance of recombination nodules on This is because – Meiosis I is a reductional division, which
homologous chromosomes during meiosis means that the resultant cell will have half the number
characterizes: (NEET 2022) of chromosomes as diploid parent cells. As a result, if the
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(1) Synaptonemal complex parent cell has 4C of DNA, the daughter cell will have 2C
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(2) Bivalent of DNA, and each gamete will have 1C of DNA.

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(3) Sites at which crossing over occurs

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(4) Terminalization 37. Crossing over takes place between which

Answer: (3) chromatids and in which stage of the cell cycle? (NEET
Pachytene stage of meiosis is characterized by the 2019)
a

(1) Non-sister chromatids of non-homologous

appearance of recombination nodules, the sites at
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chromosomes at Zygotene stage of prophase I.

which crossing over occurs between non sister
(2) Non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes
chromatids of homologous chromosomes.
at Pachytene stage of prophase I.
(3) Non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes
34. Which stage of meiotic prophase shows at Zygotene stage of prophase l.
terminalisation of chiasmata as its distinctive feature? (4) Non-sister chromatids of non-homologous
(NEET 2021) chromosomes at Pachytene stage of prophase I.
(1) Pachytene (2) Leptotene Answer: (2)
(3) Zygotene (4) Diakinesis Non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosome at
Answer: (4) pachytene stage of prophase-I

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Prophase I of meiosis I is divided into - leptotene, homologous chromosomes. It is initiated during
zygotene, pachytene, diplotene and diakinesis. pachytene stage of meiosis.
Crossing over is the exchange of genetic materials
between non-sister chromatids of homologous 40. Which of the following stages of meiosis involves
chromosome. It takes place at pachytene stage of division of centromere?
prophase-I. NEET 2023, NEET 2023 Manipur, NEET 2021
(1) Metaphase II (2) Anaphase II
38. Match the stages of meiosis in column I to their (3) Telophase (4) Metaphase I
characteristic features in column II and select the Answer: (2)
correct option using the codes given below. (NEET During meiosis, the division of the centromere occurs in
2016 PHASE II) Anaphase II. At this stage, the sister chromatids of each
Column I Column II chromosome (which are attached at the centromere)
A. Pachytene (i) Pairing of homologous are pulled apart and move toward opposite poles of the

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chromosomes cell. This is similar to what happens in anaphase of
B. Metaphase I (ii) Terminalisation of mitosis. In contrast, during Anaphase I of meiosis,
chiasmata homologous chromosomes are separated but the
centromeres do not divide, meaning the sister

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C. Diakinesis (iii) Crossing-over takes
place chromatids stay together.
D. Zygotene (iv) Chromosomes align at

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equatorial plate 41. Regarding Meiosis, which of the statements is
incorrect? (NEET 2022)

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(1) (A) - (iii); (B) - (iv); (C) - (ii); (D) - (i)
(2) (A) - (i); (B) - (iv); (C) - (ii); (D) - (iii) (1) There are two stages in Meiosis, Meiosis-I & II
(3) (A) - (ii); (B) - (iv); (C) - (iii); (D) - (i) (2) DNA replication occurs in S phase of Meiosis-II
(3) Pairing of homologous chromosomes and
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(4) (A) - (iv); (B) - (iii); (C) - (ii); (D) - (i)
Answer: (1) recombination occurs in Meiosis-I
(4) Four haploid cells formed at end of Meiosis-II
1

39. In meiosis crossing over is initiated at (NEET 2016) Answer: (2)

Meiosis involves two sequential cycles of nuclear and
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(1) Zygotene (2) Diplotene

(3) Pachytene (4) Leptotene cell division called meiosis-I and meiosis-II but only
Answer: (3) single cycle of DNA replication.
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Crossing over is a process of exchange of genetic The stage between two meiotic divisions is called
material or chromatid segments between two interkinesis and is generally short lived and involves no
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DNA replication.
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IMPORTANT QUESTIONS
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1. Given below are two statements: one is labelled as 11th NCERT, Page No. 169
t
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Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R). Correct answer: (3)
Assertion (A): The stage between two meiotic divisions
is called interkinesis. 2. Which of the following is correct about bivalent?
a

Reason (R): Interkinesis is generally short lived. (i) Bivalents are tetrads.
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In the light of the given statements, choose the correct (ii) A bivalent means 2 chromatids and 2 centromeres.
answer from the options given below: (iii) One bivalent consists of 2 homologous
(1) (A) is not correct but (R) is correct chromosomes.
(2) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct (iv) Bivalents form in leptotene.
explanation of (A) (1) only (i), (iii) and (iv) (2) only (i), (iii)
(3) Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct (3) only (i), (ii) (4) only (i), (ii), (iii)
explanation of (A) Solution:
(4) (A) is correct but (R) is not correct 11th NCERT, Page No. 131, 132
Solution: Correct answer: (2)

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3. Given below are two statements: one is labelled as (3) 1-a, 2-c, 3-b (4) 1-b, 2-a, 3-c
Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R). Solution:
Assertion (A): Cell growth results in disturbing the ratio 11th NCERT, Page No. 171
between the nucleus and cytoplasm. Correct answer: (3) 1-a, 2-c, 3-b
Reason (R): Mitosis helps the cell to restore the nucleo-
cytoplasmic ratio. 7. Given below are two statements:
In the light of the given statements, choose the correct Statement I: Meiosis involves two sequential cycles of
answer from the options given below: nuclear division, cell division and DNA replication.
(1) (A) is not correct but (R) is correct Statement II: Meiosis leads to variations in genes that
(2) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct are important for the process of evolution.
explanation of (A) In the light of the given statements, choose the correct
(3) Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct answer from the options given below:
explanation of (A) (1) Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct
(4) (A) is correct but (R) is not correct (2) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct

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Solution (3) Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect
11th NCERT, Page No. 167 (4) Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect
Correct answer: (3) Solution:

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11th NCERT, Page No. 167, 170
4. Which of these in not a key feature of meiosis? Correct answer: (1) Statement I is incorrect but

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(1) Meiosis involves two sequential cycles of nuclear Statement II is correct
and cell division. Meiosis involves two sequential cycles of nuclear and

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(2) Meiosis involves pairing of homologous cell division called meiosis I and meiosis II but only a
chromosomes. single cycle of DNA replication.
(3) Two cycles of DNA replication occur during meiosis.
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(4) There is recombination between the paired 8. Match the column I with column II and select the
homologous chromosomes. correct answer from the codes given below:
Solution: Column I Column II
1

11th NCERT, Page No. 167

1. Bivalent a. X-shaped structures formed during
Correct answer: (3)
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diplotene stage
5. Four different steps that occur during meiosis are 2. Synapsis b. pairing of chromosomes during
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given in the following list: zygotene stage

(i) Complete separation of chromatids 3. Chiasmata c. complex formed by a pair of
synapsed homologous chromosomes
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(ii) Pairing of homologous chromosomes

(iii) Lining up of paired chromosomes on equator (1) 1-b, 2-a, 3-c (2) 1-b, 2-c, 3-a
(iv) Crossing over between chromatids (3) 1-c, 2-a, 3-b (4) 1-c, 2-b, 3-a
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Select the correct sequential arrangement of the steps. Solution:

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(1) (ii), (iii), (iv), (i) (2) (iii), (ii), (iv), (i) 11th NCERT, Page No. 168
(3) (iii), (i), (ii), (iv) (4) (ii), (iv), (iii), (i) Correct answer: (4) 1-c, 2-b, 3-a
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Solution:
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11th NCERT, Page No. 168 9. Identify the incorrect statement regarding cell
Correct answer: (4) cycle:
(1) Interphase (period of preparation for cell division),
a

lasts more than 95% of the duration of cell cycle.

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6. Match the column I with column II and select the

correct answer from the codes given below: (2) Mitosis (M phase) is the actual period of cell
Column I Column II division.
(3) The duration of cell cycle varies from cell type to cell
1. Gap 1 phase a. normal metabolism, most of the type.
organelle duplication (4) The amount of DNA per cell and the number of
2. Gap 2 phase b. DNA replication, chromosome chromosomes doubles during the S phase.
duplication Solution:
3. Synthesis phase c. period of cytoplasmic growth 11th NCERT, Page No. 163
Correct answer: (4) is incorrect
(1) 1-a, 2-b, 3-c (2) 1-b, 2-c, 3-a

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The amount of DNA per cell doubles during the S phase, 11th NCERT, Page No. 165, 166, 168
but the number of chromosomes remains the same. Correct answer: (2) 1-d, 2-c, 3-b, 4-a

10. Given below are two statements: one is labelled as 13. Given below are two statements:
Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R). Statement I: G0 stage of the cell cycle is also known as
Assertion (A): The morphology of chromosomes is most resting phase.
easily studied at metaphase stage of cell division. Statement II: Cells in the G0 stage remain metabolically
Reason (R): During metaphase, chromosomes are inactive and no longer proliferate.
completely condensed, clearly visible under the In the light of the given statements, choose the correct
microscope and spread through the cytoplasm of the answer from the options given below:
cell. (1) Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct
(1) (A) is not correct but (R) is correct (2) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct
(2) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct (3) Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect
explanation of (A) (4) Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect

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(3) Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct Solution:
explanation of (A) 11th NCERT, Page No. 163, 164
(4) (A) is correct but (R) is not correct Correct answer: (3) Both Statement I and Statement II

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Solution: are incorrect
11th NCERT, Page No. 165 Interphase of the cell cycle is also known as resting

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Correct answer: (2) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) phase.
is the correct explanation of (A) Cells in the G0 stage remain metabolically active but no

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longer proliferate unless called on to do so depending
11. Which of the following statement correctly on the requirement of the organism.
describes Anaphase I of Meiosis I?
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(1) The bivalent chromosomes align on the equatorial 14. Given below are two statements: one is labelled as
plate. Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).
(2) The microtubules from the opposite poles of the Assertion (A): Meiosis, also known as reduction
1

spindle attach to the kinetochore of homologous division, reduces the chromosome number by half while
chromosomes. making the gametes.
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(3) Homologous chromosomes move to the opposite Reason (R): In sexual reproduction, when the two
poles with both their chromatids. gametes fuse the chromosome number is restored to
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(4) Centrosome which had undergone duplication the value in the parent.
during interphase, begins to move towards opposite (1) (A) is not correct but (R) is correct
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poles of the cell. (2) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct
Solution: explanation of (A)
11th NCERT, Page No. 164, 168, 171, (3) Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct
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Correct answer: (3) is correct explanation of (A)

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(4) (A) is correct but (R) is not correct

12. Match the column I with column II and select the Solution:
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correct answer from the codes given below: 11th NCERT, Page No. 171
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Column I Column II Correct answer: (3)

1. Anaphase a. Crossing over between
a

15. Match the column I with column II and select the

homologous chromosomes
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correct answer from the codes given below:

2. Zygotene b. Chromosomes moved to spindle
Column I Column II
equator
3. Metaphase c. Pairing between homologous 1. Diakinesis a. compaction of chromosomes continues
chromosomes 2. Pachytene b. formation of synaptonemal complex
4. Pachytene d. Centromere splits and chromatids
3. Zygotene c. appearance of recombination nodules
separate
(1) 1-b, 2-a, 3-d, 4-c (2) 1-d, 2-c, 3-b, 4-a 4. Leptotene d. represents transition to metaphase
(3) 1-d, 2-c, 3-a, 4-b (4) 1-b, 2-d, 3-a, 4-c (1) 1-d, 2-c, 3-a, 4-b (2) 1-b, 2-a, 3-d, 4-c
Solution: (3) 1-a, 2-b, 3-c, 4-d (4) 1-d, 2-c, 3-b, 4-a

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Solution: 18. Which of the following does not occur during
11th NCERT, Page No. 168 telophase?
Correct answer: (4) 1-d, 2-c, 3-b, 4-a (1) Formation of nuclear envelope.
(2) Individual chromosomes can be seen.
16. Given below are two statements: one is labelled as (3) Nucleolus, Golgi complex and ER reform.
Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R). (4) The chromosomes that have reached their
Assertion (A): Animal cells undergo cytokinesis by a respective poles decondense.
different mechanism than plant cells. Solution:
Reason (R): In animal cells, the furrow in the plasma 11th NCERT, Page No. 166
membrane gradually deepens and ultimately joins in Correct answer: (2)
the centre dividing the cell cytoplasm, while in plant
cells, formation of new cell wall begins with the 19. Select the correct set of statements about cell
formation of cell plate. cycle:
In the light of the given statements, choose the correct (a) Since the number of chromosomes in the parent and

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answer from the options given below: progeny cells is the same, mitosis is also called as
(1) (A) is not correct but (R) is correct equational division.
(2) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct (b) Very clear-cut lines can be drawn between various

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explanation of (A) stages of mitosis.
(3) Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct (c) In the S and G2 phases the new DNA molecules are

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explanation of (A) not distinct but intertwined.
(4) (A) is correct but (R) is not correct (d) The centrosome, which had undergone duplication

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Solution: during S phase of interphase, begins to move towards
11th NCERT, Page No. 166 opposite poles of the cell during metaphase.
Correct answer: (2) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) (1) only (a), (c) and (d) (2) only (b), (d)
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is the correct explanation of (A) (3) only (a) and (c) (4) only (a), (d)
Solution:
17. Given below are two statements: 11th NCERT, Page No. 131, 132
1

Statement I: In plant cells, at the time of karyokinesis, Correct answer: (3) only (a) and (c)
organelles like mitochondria and plastids get Incorrect statements are (b) and (d).
12

distributed between the two daughter cells. Very clear-cut lines cannot be drawn between various
Statement II: Mitotic divisions in the meristematic stages of mitosis.
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tissues like the apical and the lateral meristem, result in The centrosome, which had undergone duplication
a continuous growth of plants throughout their life. during S phase of interphase, begins to move towards
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In the light of the given statements, choose the correct opposite poles of the cell during prophase.
answer from the options given below:
(1) Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct 20. Given below are two statements:
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(2) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct Statement I: When karyokinesis is not followed by
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(3) Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect cytokinesis, it results in a multinucleate condition
(4) Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect leading to the formation of syncytium.
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Solution: Statement II: Liquid endosperm in coconut is an

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11th NCERT, Page No. 166, 167 example of syncytium.

Correct answer: (1) Statement I is incorrect but In the light of the given statements, choose the correct
a

Statement II is correct answer from the options given below:

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In plant cells, at the time of cytoplasmic division (1) Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct
(cytokinesis), organelles like mitochondria and plastids (2) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct
get distributed between the two daughter cells. (3) Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect
(4) Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect
Solution:
11th NCERT, Page No. 166
Correct answer: (2) Both Statement I and Statement II
are correct

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