Which of the following explains the importance of meiosis for maintaining chromosome number across generations?
It halves the chromosome number in gametes before fertilization
Meiosis is the reduction division that forms gametes. A diploid (2n) cell divides to form haploid (n) gametes, each carrying only one set of chromosomes.
At fertilization, a haploid male gamete fuses with a haploid female gamete, so the zygote gets back the diploid number (n + n = 2n). In humans, for example, gametes carry 23 chromosomes and the zygote has 46. If the number were not halved first, it would double in every generation; so meiosis keeps the chromosome number of a species constant across generations.
Meiosis does not double the chromosome number. Producing identical cells is the result of mitosis, not meiosis, which produces genetically varied cells. The offspring receive one set of chromosomes from each parent, not from the mother only.
Hence, It halves the chromosome number in gametes before fertilization.
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Important Questions from Reproduction
Cells of the tapetum possess dense cytoplasm and generally have ________.
Human chorionic gonadotropin:
Zygotes do not undergo reduction division immediately. They produce a multicellular body called a -
Which of the following organisms does NOT show asexual reproduction by means of fission?
The pollen needs to be transferred from the stamen to the stigma. If this transfer of pollen occurs in the same flower, it is referred to as __________ . On the other hand, if the pollen is transferred from one flower to another, it is known as ______
