Question

what is the primary purpose of meiosis and sexual reproduction?
efficiency
genetic variation
cloning
preservation of species

Explanation:

Meiosis involves processes like crossing - over and independent assortment. Sexual reproduction combines genetic material from two parents. Both lead to new combinations of genes, which is genetic variation. Efficiency is not the main purpose as sexual reproduction can be complex. Cloning would involve identical genetic copies, which is not the case here. Preservation of species is more of a secondary or long - term consequence rather than the primary purpose.

Answer:

genetic variation