Question

which description distinguishes the process of meiosis from mitosis?
○ unlike mitotic cells, meiotic cells undergo a single division to halve their chromosome number, after which they undergo crossing over to restore their diploid state.
○ unlike mitotic cells, meiotic cells undergo multiple divisions to produce an effectively unlimited array of daughter cells which are genetically identical to the parent cells.
○ unlike mitotic cells, meiotic cells undergo pairing of homologous chromosomes, allowing centromeres to remain intact throughout both cellular divisions.
○ unlike mitotic cells, meiotic cells undergo two divisions to produce haploid cells, allowing for genetic diversity in sexually reproducing organisms.

Explanation:

Meiosis has two rounds of cell division (meiosis I and meiosis II), resulting in four haploid cells. Mitosis has one round of division, resulting in two diploid cells. Homologous chromosome pairing (synapsis) occurs in meiosis (prophase I) but not in mitosis. Mitosis produces genetically identical daughter cells, while meiosis (with crossing - over and independent assortment) allows for genetic diversity.

Answer:

Unlike mitotic cells, meiotic cells undergo two divisions to produce haploid cells, allowing for genetic diversity in sexually reproducing organisms.