Question

Select the statement(s) that accurately describe how meiosis affects the way in which traits are passed on from parents to offspring.

Meiosis creates four cells that have the same combinations of genes for each trait.

Meiosis ensures that offspring will have unique traits.

Meiosis creates four haploid cells that have different combinations of genes for each trait for each cell.

Meiosis prepare the gametes for sexual reproduction.

Meiosis is a type of cell division that is used to repair or replenish dead cells (skin cells) to maintain cellular homeostasis

Answer 1

Accurate statements: 2 (with a caveat), 3, and 4.

1. False — meiosis does not create four cells with the same gene combinations; it produces genetically different cells.
2. True (with caveat) — meiosis generates genetic variation (via independent assortment and crossing over), so it makes offspring more likely to have unique trait combinations, but it does not absolutely guarantee uniqueness.
3. True — meiosis produces four haploid cells, each typically with different combinations of alleles for traits.
4. True — meiosis produces the haploid gametes used in sexual reproduction.
5. False — repairing or replenishing somatic cells (e.g., skin) is the role of mitosis, not meiosis.