Our closest primate relative, the chimpanzee, has a diploid number of 2n =48. For each of the following stages of M phase, identify the number of chromosomes present in each cell.

end of meiotic anaphase II

Key Concepts

Diploid and Haploid Numbers

Diploid (2n) refers to cells that contain two complete sets of chromosomes, one from each parent. In the case of chimpanzees, the diploid number is 48, meaning they have 24 pairs of chromosomes. During meiosis, cells undergo two rounds of division, resulting in haploid (n) cells, which contain only one set of chromosomes, or 24 in the case of chimpanzees.

Meiosis

Meiosis is a specialized form of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing four genetically diverse haploid cells from one diploid cell. It consists of two main stages: meiosis I and meiosis II. Anaphase II, specifically, is the stage where sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles, leading to the formation of haploid cells.

Chromosome Number During M Phase

During M phase, which includes both mitosis and meiosis, the number of chromosomes varies depending on the specific stage. At the end of meiotic anaphase II, each cell has separated its sister chromatids, resulting in a total of 24 chromosomes in each haploid cell. This is crucial for understanding how chromosome numbers change throughout the meiotic process.