Describe what happens during prophase I and metaphase I and how these phases play an important role in the genetic diversity of the daughter cells produced.

Question

anonymous · Answer

In Prophase I: 
Early: The nuclear envelope disintegrates, chromosomes condense, spindle apparatus begins to form, and the homologous chromosomes (tetrad--4 chromatids) synapse.

Late: Crossing over occurs. It can occur between non-sister chromatids.

In Metaphase !: The tetrad migrate to center of the cellular structure and form a metaphase plate. 

Their role in genetic diversity is mainly due to crossing over. This creates new combinations of expressions. The metaphase plate is also important because it allows for the eventual independent assortment of homologs.