A bivalent consists of:

Correct answer: C. Four chromatids and two centromeres

  • A. Two chromatids and one centromere
  • B. Two chromatids and two centromeres
  • C. Four chromatids and two centromeres
  • D. Four chromatids and four centromeres

Explanation

A bivalent, also known as a tetrad, forms during meiosis when two homologous chromosomes pair up. Each homologous chromosome consists of two sister chromatids, resulting in a total of four chromatids. These chromatids are organized into two pairs, each connected by a centromere, thus giving us two centromeres in a bivalent. This configuration facilitates the process of genetic recombination and ensures accurate segregation of chromosomes during cell division. Options A and B incorrectly describe the number of chromatids, while Option D incorrectly states the number of centromeres.

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