Question

why is meiosis important for organisms? it allows for genetic variation among organisms. it determines which genes are dominant and which are recessive. it produces genetically identical cells. it provides a means of asexual reproduction.

Explanation:

Meiosis is a type of cell division. During meiosis, crossing - over occurs (exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes) and independent assortment of chromosomes takes place. These processes lead to the formation of gametes (sperm and egg cells) with different genetic combinations. When gametes fuse during sexual reproduction, it results in offspring with genetic variation. Mitosis produces genetically identical cells (so the option "It produces genetically identical cells" is wrong). Meiosis is related to sexual reproduction (not asexual, so the option "It provides a means of asexual reproduction" is wrong). Gene dominance and recessiveness are determined by the nature of the genes themselves and not directly by meiosis (so the option "It determines which genes are dominant and which are recessive" is wrong).

Answer:

It allows for genetic variation among organisms.