Question

john claims that the process of meiosis provides an advantage to sexually reproducing organisms. which argument best supports johns claim?
a. meiosis reshuffles the genes in gametes which increases genetic diversity.
b. meiosis prevents mutations in gametes which ensures that genes are preserved.
c. meiosis combines the strongest genes in gametes which increases advantageous traits.
d. meiosis creates identical genes in gametes which prevents genetic information from being lost.

Explanation:

Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating gametes (sex cells). During meiosis, genetic recombination (crossing - over) occurs, which reshuffles genes. This genetic reshuffling leads to genetic diversity in offspring. Genetic diversity is an advantage for sexually reproducing organisms as it allows populations to adapt to changing environments.

• Option B: Meiosis does not prevent mutations. Mutations can still occur during DNA replication which is part of the meiotic process.
• Option C: Meiosis does not specifically combine the "strongest" genes. It is a random process of genetic recombination and segregation.
• Option D: Meiosis creates non - identical gametes (due to crossing - over and independent assortment). Mitosis creates identical cells (in somatic cells), not meiosis.

Answer:

A. Meiosis reshuffles the genes in gametes which increases genetic diversity.