What is the purpose of meiosis?

Meiosis is a type of cell division that is essential for <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/sexual%20reproduction">sexual reproduction</a> in eukaryotes. Its primary purpose is to reduce the number of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/chromosomes">chromosomes</a> in the parent cell by half, creating four daughter cells called gametes (sex cells).

Here's a breakdown of the purposes:

• Halving the Chromosome Number: Meiosis ensures that when two gametes (sperm and egg) fuse during <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/fertilization">fertilization</a>, the resulting zygote has the correct number of chromosomes for that species. Without meiosis, the chromosome number would double with each generation, leading to genetic instability.

• Generating Genetic Diversity: Meiosis promotes genetic variation in offspring through two key processes:

  • <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/crossing%20over">Crossing Over</a> (Recombination): During prophase I, homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material, creating new combinations of genes.
  • <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/independent%20assortment">Independent Assortment</a>: During metaphase I, homologous chromosome pairs align randomly at the metaphase plate, leading to different combinations of chromosomes in each daughter cell.

• Gamete Formation: In animals, meiosis produces sperm and egg cells. In plants, it produces spores, which then give rise to gamete-producing structures. Meiosis is fundamental to the life cycle of sexually reproducing organisms.