True or False: Crossing over prevents homologous chromosomes from separating during meiosis I.

Answer 1

False. Crossing over actually occurs during prophase I of meiosis and involves the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes. This process increases genetic diversity. The separation of homologous chromosomes occurs later during anaphase I of meiosis, after crossing over has taken place. Crossing over does not prevent homologous chromosomes from separating; rather, it facilitates the proper segregation of these chromosomes during meiosis.