Question

during meiosis, non-sister chromatids sometimes exchange portions of their dna to form new genetic combinations. what is this process called?

a. crossing over
b. binary fission
c. gamete production
d. independent assortment

Explanation:

Analyze the process described

The question describes a process during meiosis where non-sister chromatids exchange portions of their DNA to form new genetic combinations.

Evaluate the given options

• Crossing over: This is the exchange of genetic material between non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes during prophase I of meiosis, leading to recombinant chromosomes.
• Binary fission: This is a method of asexual reproduction used by prokaryotes, not a process in meiosis.
• Gamete production: This is the overall process of making sex cells (gametogenesis), of which meiosis is a part, but it is not the specific name for the DNA exchange.
• Independent assortment: This refers to the random orientation and separation of homologous chromosome pairs during metaphase I and anaphase I, not the physical exchange of DNA segments.

Select the correct term

The specific process of exchanging DNA segments between non-sister chromatids is called crossing over.

Answer:

• A. Crossing over (Correct answer)
• B. Binary fission
• C. Gamete production
• D. Independent assortment