The significance of meiosis in the life cycle of sexually reproducing organisms is:
It ensures genetic diversity among offspring.
Meiosis involves two rounds of cell division and results in the formation of gametes (sperm and eggs) that have half the number of chromosomes (haploid) compared to somatic cells (diploid). This process contributes to genetic variation through crossing over and independent assortment, which are key mechanisms that enhance genetic diversity in sexually reproducing populations.