Question

Meiosis results in ______________ in diploid organisms.

• A. All of the above
• B. Introduction of variation
• C. Reduction in the number of chromosomes
• D. Production of gametes

Answer 1

The correct option is A All of the above

Meiosis

Meiosis is the type of cell division in which the number of chromosomes reduces to half in daughter cells when compared to the parent cell.

Production of gametes

Meiosis takes place in spermatogonia and oogonia for the formation of haploid gametes. This is to ensure that the number of chromosomes is reduced to half in the daughter cells as compared to the parent cell so that the ploidy of the next generation remains constant.

Reduction in the number of chromosomes

During meiosis, homologous chromosomes separate in Anaphase-I. This results in reduction in the number of chromosomes in the daughter cells.

Introduction of variation

During meiosis, recombination or crossing over occurs. Recombination is the exchange of DNA segments (genetic material) between the non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes. This leads to variations.

Final answer: d. All of the above.