Question

1. this question has two parts. first, answer part a, then answer part b.

part a
what is the purpose of meiosis in animals?
select two correct answers.
to create cells with genetic variation
to create cells that are genetically identical
to check and correct any errors in the new daughter cells
to produce four haploid cells that are all genetically unique
to help reproduce somatic cells asexually

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 genetic variation. Also, meiosis results in four haploid cells. Each of these haploid cells has a unique combination of chromosomes due to the above - mentioned processes.

• The option “to create cells with genetic variation” is correct because of crossing - over and independent assortment.
• The option “to produce four haploid cells that are all genetically unique” is correct as meiosis I and meiosis II divisions result in four non - identical haploid cells.
• The option “to create cells that are genetically identical” is wrong. Mitosis creates genetically identical cells, not meiosis.
• The option “to check and correct any errors in the new daughter cells” is not a function of meiosis. DNA repair mechanisms (not meiosis) are mainly responsible for error checking and correction in cells.
• The option “to help reproduce somatic cells asexually” is incorrect. Meiosis is involved in the production of gametes (not somatic cells), and somatic cells reproduce asexually via mitosis.

Answer:

to create cells with genetic variation, to produce four haploid cells that are all genetically unique