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Metaphase 1

Homologous pairs of chromosomes assemble along the metaphase plate. The random orientation of the homologous pairs leads to 2²³ different combinations in humans.The maternal and paternal chromosomes can end up facing either pole. This is called independent assortment and leads to genetic variation.

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Specification: OCR Biology A (H020), AS-level, 2.1.6 Cell division, cell diversity and cellular organisation. Topic: Cell Division.

Key terms in this lesson

metaphase plate: The imaginary plane at the equator of the spindle where chromosomes align during metaphase of mitosis or meiosis.

More in Cell Division

All 31 lessons in Cell Division · All OCR AS-level Biology topics