Meiosis Concepts and Processes

What is the primary purpose of meiosis?

• To produce identical body cells for growth and repair.

• To create genetically diverse gametes for sexual reproduction.

• To replace worn-out cells in the body.

• To increase the total number of chromosomes in an organism.

How many chromosomes are present in a human sperm cell or egg cell after meiosis is complete?

• 46 chromosomes

• 92 chromosomes

• 23 chromosomes

• 12 chromosomes

Which important process occurs during Prophase I of meiosis, leading to increased genetic variation?

• DNA replication

• Sister chromatids separating

• Homologous chromosomes lining up in a single file

• Crossing over

What is the final outcome of meiosis from one starting cell?

• Two identical cells with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

• Four genetically identical cells with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

• Two genetically different cells with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

• Four genetically different cells with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.