Which two processes in meiosis contribute to genetic diversity in offspring?

• A. DNA replication and cytokinesis
• B. Crossing over and independent assortment
• C. Mitosis and binary fission
• D. Gene expression and protein synthesis

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating four haploid cells, each genetically distinct from the parent cell.
2. Recognize that genetic diversity in offspring is crucial for evolution and adaptation, and meiosis contributes to this diversity through specific processes.
3. Identify 'crossing over' as one of the key processes in meiosis. During prophase I, homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material, leading to new combinations of alleles.
4. Learn about 'independent assortment,' which occurs during metaphase I. Homologous chromosomes are distributed randomly into daughter cells, ensuring a mix of maternal and paternal chromosomes.
5. Note that DNA replication and cytokinesis, mitosis and binary fission, and gene expression and protein synthesis are not processes in meiosis that contribute to genetic diversity.