Which event occurs during prophase I of meiosis that contributes to genetic variation?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the event that occurs during prophase I of meiosis that leads to genetic variation. Meiosis is a type of cell division that results in four daughter cells each with half the number of chromosomes of the parent cell, as in the production of gametes and plant spores. Prophase I is the first phase of meiosis I. Genetic variation is important for evolution as it allows natural selection to increase or decrease frequency of alleles already in the population.
Answer
Crossing over occurs during prophase I of meiosis, creating genetic variation.
During prophase I of meiosis, crossing over occurs. This is the exchange of genetic material between non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes, leading to genetic variation in the resulting gametes.
Answer for screen readers
During prophase I of meiosis, crossing over occurs. This is the exchange of genetic material between non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes, leading to genetic variation in the resulting gametes.
More Information
Prophase I is the first stage of meiosis I and is characterized by several key events, including the pairing of homologous chromosomes and crossing over. Crossing over is a crucial process that increases genetic diversity by creating new combinations of genes.
Tips
A common mistake is to confuse the events of prophase I with those of prophase II or with the events of mitosis. Remember that crossing over is specific to prophase I of meiosis.
Sources
- 7.6: Genetic Variation - Biology LibreTexts - bio.libretexts.org
- Crossing Over - National Human Genome Research Institute - genome.gov
- Meiosis, inheritance and variation - Science Learning Hub - sciencelearn.org.nz
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