Question

Is synapsis a characteristic feature seen during mitosis in the somatic cells?

Answer 1

Hint: Mitosis is the process of division of cells. It only occurs in the somatic cells. During mitosis the number of chromosomes in parent and daughter cells remains the same. This is the reason why it is also known as equational division.

Complete answer:
No, Synapsis is not a characteristic feature seen during mitosis in the somatic cells.
Mitosis is the process in which one single cell divides into two identical daughter cells. In the process the number of chromosomes in parent and daughter cells remains the same. This is why it is also known as equational division, because the number of chromosomes remains equal. Major purpose of mitosis is growth and to replace the dead and worn out cells.
Mitosis is further divided into:
1. Prophase
2. Metaphase
3. Anaphase
4. Telophase
Cytokinesis
Synapsis is the process of association of homologous chromosomes. It occurs in the zygotene phase of prophase I in meiosis.
This particular stage is not found in mitosis but, only found in the process of meiosis, also known as reductional division, because the number of chromosomes from parent to daughter cells becomes half. In synapsis, the homologous chromosomes pair with their counterpart which result in the exchange of genetic information. Homologous chromosomes during meiosis pairs and decreases the genetic material of the gamete cells.

Note:
Synapsis is not a characteristic feature seen during mitosis in the somatic cells. It is a characteristic feature seen in the process of meiosis during formation of male and female gametes. Synapsis is found in the zygotene stage of prophase I in meiosis. It is responsible for the homologous pair of chromosomes to pair and exchange the genetic information.