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Multiple Choice
What is the importance of crossing-over during meiosis?
A
It ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.
B
It reduces the number of chromosomes in the daughter cells.
C
It prevents mutations from occurring during cell division.
D
It increases genetic variation by exchanging DNA between homologous chromosomes.
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 crossing-over occurs during prophase I of meiosis, where homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange segments of genetic material.
Acknowledge that this exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes results in new combinations of alleles, contributing to genetic diversity.
Realize that increased genetic variation is crucial for evolution and adaptation, as it provides a population with a wider range of traits that may be beneficial in changing environments.
Conclude that the primary importance of crossing-over during meiosis is to increase genetic variation by exchanging DNA between homologous chromosomes, rather than ensuring identical chromosome sets, reducing chromosome numbers, or preventing mutations.