Question

if we examine the diagrams of mitosis and meiosis we see that in both cases dna replication occurs yet one process mitosis ensures genetic continuity while the other meiosis facilitates genetic variation of daughter cells identify the choice that does not explain genetic variation of daughter cells following meiosis.
a. mitosis is followed by fertilization the union of gametes to create a diploid zygote
b. in metaphase i each chromosome moves independently of the others a process called independent assortment
c. during prophase i the homologous pairs of chromosomes often exchange chromosome segments via crossing over

Explanation:

• Option A: Mitosis followed by fertilization (the union of gametes to create a diploid zygote) is not a part of meiosis. Mitosis is for growth and repair, and fertilization is a separate process from meiosis. Meiosis is about producing gametes (haploid cells) through two - stage cell division (meiosis I and meiosis II), and this option does not relate to the mechanisms within meiosis that cause genetic variation.
• Option B: Independent assortment occurs during metaphase I of meiosis. Homologous chromosome pairs line up at the metaphase plate, and the way they orient (which chromosome of the pair goes to which pole) is random. This leads to different combinations of chromosomes in daughter cells and is a source of genetic variation.
• Option C: Crossing - over occurs during prophase I of meiosis. Homologous chromosomes pair up (synapsis), and segments of non - sister chromatids are exchanged. This results in new combinations of alleles on chromosomes and is a source of genetic variation.
• Option D: As mentioned above, crossing - over is a key event in meiosis (prophase I) that contributes to genetic variation.

Since the question asks for the option that does not explain genetic variation of daughter cells following meiosis, and option A is not a process within meiosis (but rather a combination of mitosis and fertilization which are separate from the core meiosis - related genetic - variation - producing mechanisms), option A is the answer.

Answer:

A. Mitosis followed by fertilization (the union of gametes to create a diploid zygote)