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Multiple Choice
Which statement explains how crossing over increases genetic variation during meiosis?
A
Crossing over reduces the number of chromosomes in gametes, ensuring genetic diversity.
B
Crossing over prevents the separation of sister chromatids, maintaining genetic stability.
C
Crossing over results in the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes, creating new allele combinations.
D
Crossing over occurs during mitosis, leading to identical daughter cells.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating four genetically diverse gametes.
Recognize that crossing over is a process that occurs during prophase I of meiosis, where homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange segments of genetic material.
Identify that this exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes results in new combinations of alleles, which increases genetic variation among the resulting gametes.
Acknowledge that increased genetic variation is crucial for evolution and adaptation, as it provides a wider range of traits for natural selection to act upon.
Note that crossing over does not occur during mitosis, which is a process that results in identical daughter cells, and does not contribute to genetic variation in the same way as meiosis.