Which of the following is a result of meiosis?

Meiosis is a specialized form of cell division that occurs in sexually reproducing organisms to produce gametes—such as sperm and eggs. One of the primary outcomes of meiosis is genetic variation. This occurs through two key processes: crossing over and independent assortment.

During meiosis, homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material in a process known as crossing over. This results in new combinations of genes, which contribute to genetic diversity. Furthermore, during the alignment and separation of chromosomes, the way they are randomly distributed to the daughter cells (independent assortment) further ensures that each gamete contains a unique set of genetic information.

This genetic variation is crucial for the evolution and adaptability of species, as it leads to offspring that may have different traits compared to their parents. This diversity can enhance a population’s ability to survive and thrive in changing environments. Overall, meiosis plays a fundamental role in creating genetic variation necessary for evolution and natural selection.