Meiosis contributes to genetic diversity through which of the following processes?

Meiosis plays a crucial role in promoting genetic diversity, primarily through the processes of crossing over and independent assortment.

During meiosis, particularly in prophase I, homologous chromosomes exchange segments of DNA in a process called crossing over. This exchange results in new combinations of alleles (gene variants) on each chromosome. When the gametes are formed, they carry these unique combinations, contributing to the genetic variation among offspring.

Additionally, during metaphase I, the arrangement of homologous chromosome pairs at the equatorial plane of the cell is random, which leads to independent assortment. This means that the distribution of maternal and paternal chromosomes to the gametes occurs without regard to the other chromosome pairs. Consequently, the combination of chromosomes that end up in each gamete is unique, further increasing variability.

Collectively, these mechanisms ensure that offspring have a genetic makeup that can differ significantly from their parents and from each other, which is essential for evolution and adaptation in changing environments.