Crossing-over and independent assortment can occur during meiosis. How does this support the claim that meiosis results in inheritable genetic variations

Question

A: it allows for new combinations of genes
B: it maintains genetic stability
C: it results in identical daughter cells
D: it produces cells that have genetic combinations that aren't passed on

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

A: it allows for new combinations of genes

Crossing-over (the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes) and independent assortment (the random distribution of maternal and paternal chromosomes to gametes) during meiosis contribute to genetic variation. These processes create new combinations of alleles, which can be inherited by offspring, supporting the claim that meiosis results in inheritable genetic variations.