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Multiple Choice
Which statement best compares the role of meiosis in unicellular and multicellular organisms?
A
In unicellular organisms, meiosis produces gametes for sexual reproduction, while in multicellular organisms, it produces gametes that enable genetic diversity in offspring.
B
Meiosis serves the same function in both unicellular and multicellular organisms by enabling asexual reproduction.
C
In both unicellular and multicellular organisms, meiosis is primarily responsible for growth and tissue repair.
D
In unicellular organisms, meiosis results in the formation of new individuals, whereas in multicellular organisms, meiosis produces specialized reproductive cells (gametes).
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the process of meiosis. Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in the production of haploid cells. This is essential for sexual reproduction in eukaryotic organisms.
Step 2: Compare the role of meiosis in unicellular organisms. In unicellular organisms, meiosis can lead directly to the formation of new individuals because these organisms often reproduce sexually by forming gametes that fuse to create a new organism.
Step 3: Compare the role of meiosis in multicellular organisms. In multicellular organisms, meiosis produces specialized reproductive cells called gametes (sperm and egg). These gametes are involved in sexual reproduction, contributing to genetic diversity in offspring.
Step 4: Clarify the distinction between unicellular and multicellular roles. In unicellular organisms, meiosis is directly tied to the creation of new individuals, while in multicellular organisms, meiosis is part of a larger reproductive system that involves gamete formation and fertilization.
Step 5: Eliminate incorrect options. Meiosis does not serve the same function in both unicellular and multicellular organisms, nor is it responsible for growth and tissue repair. Its primary role is related to sexual reproduction and genetic diversity.