9. During which phase does the number of chromosomes get reduced from diploid to haploid? A. Prophase II B. Metaphase I (C.) Anaphase I D. Telophase I 10. Which of the following correctly describes independent assortment during meiosis? A. Chromatids are randomly distributed into gametes. B. Homologous chromosomes are paired together and segregate together. C. The orientation of each homologous pair on the metaphase plate is random. D. Crossing over occurs between non-sister chromatids.

9. **(C) Anaphase I:** During anaphase I of meiosis, homologous chromosomes are separated and pulled to opposite poles of the cell. This is the stage where the chromosome number is reduced from diploid (two copies of each chromosome) to haploid (one copy of each chromosome). While the sister chromatids are still attached at the centromere, the *pairs* of chromosomes are separated, resulting in a reduction in chromosome number.<br /><br />10. **(C) The orientation of each homologous pair on the metaphase plate is random.** Independent assortment refers to the random way homologous chromosome pairs align themselves on the metaphase plate during metaphase I. Each pair can orient with either the maternal or paternal chromosome closer to a given pole. This random alignment leads to different combinations of maternal and paternal chromosomes in the resulting gametes, increasing genetic diversity.<br />