Which type of cell division produces reproductive cells (gametes) in sexually reproducing organisms?

• A. Binary fission
• B. Meiosis
• C. Budding
• D. Mitosis

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context: The question is asking about the type of cell division that produces gametes (reproductive cells) in sexually reproducing organisms. Gametes are specialized cells like sperm and eggs that are involved in sexual reproduction.
2. Recall the key concept: Gametes must have half the number of chromosomes compared to somatic (body) cells. This is because during fertilization, the fusion of two gametes restores the full chromosome number. This reduction in chromosome number is achieved through meiosis.
3. Differentiate between the options: Binary fission is a form of asexual reproduction used by prokaryotes, budding is another form of asexual reproduction seen in some organisms like yeast, and mitosis is a type of cell division that produces identical somatic cells. None of these processes reduce the chromosome number, which is essential for gamete formation.
4. Explain meiosis: Meiosis is a specialized type of cell division that occurs in two stages (Meiosis I and Meiosis II). It reduces the chromosome number by half, creating haploid cells (n) from diploid cells (2n). This ensures genetic diversity and prepares the cells for sexual reproduction.
5. Conclude: Meiosis is the correct answer because it is the only type of cell division that produces gametes with half the chromosome number, enabling sexual reproduction in organisms.