In meiosis, crossing over, also known as recombination, is the exchange of chromosome segments between non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes.
Crossing over results in new gene combinations in the gametes that are not found in either parent, contributing to genetic diversity.
Recombination can happen between any two genes on a chromosome; the amount of crossing over depends on how close the genes are to the chromosome.
When two genes are separated by a large distance, such as at opposite ends of a chromosome, crossover and non-crossover events occur with equal frequency.
Crossing over two genes that are right next to each other on the chromosome will be extremely rare.
If there is no crossing over, the products are parental gametes.
Recombinant gametes are the result of crossing over.