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Multiple Choice
In what two ways does meiosis produce genetic variation?
A
Mitosis and cytokinesis
B
DNA replication and mutation
C
Gene expression and protein synthesis
D
Crossing over and independent assortment
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating four haploid cells, each genetically distinct from the parent cell.
Recognize that genetic variation in meiosis is primarily introduced through two mechanisms: crossing over and independent assortment.
Crossing over occurs during prophase I of meiosis, where homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange segments of genetic material. This process creates new combinations of alleles on each chromosome.
Independent assortment refers to the random distribution of maternal and paternal chromosomes into gametes during metaphase I. This means that the way one pair of chromosomes lines up does not affect how other pairs line up, leading to a variety of possible genetic combinations.
By combining crossing over and independent assortment, meiosis ensures that each gamete contains a unique set of genetic information, contributing to genetic diversity in sexually reproducing populations.