During meiosis II, which stage is characterized by duplicated chromosomes moving to the center of the cell?

• A. Metaphase II
• B. Anaphase II
• C. Telophase II
• D. Prophase II

Answer: (A)

Duplicated chromosomes align at the center of the cell during meiosis II. At this stage, each chromosome is made of two sister chromatids, and spindle fibers pull them so they line up along the metaphase plate with kinetochores attached to opposite poles. This positioning ensures that when the chromatids separate in the next phase, each new cell receives one chromatid from each chromosome. Prophase II involves condensation and spindle formation, anaphase II moves the sister chromatids to opposite poles, and telophase II finishes the division with nuclei reforming.