Which three processes during meiosis lead to genetic variation among offspring that have the same two parents?

• A. Gene expression, protein synthesis, and mutation
• B. Binary fission, budding, and vegetative propagation
• C. Crossing over, independent assortment, and random fertilization
• D. DNA replication, mitosis, and cytokinesis

Answer: (C)

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 variation during meiosis is primarily introduced through three key processes: crossing over, independent assortment, and random fertilization.
3. Crossing over occurs during prophase I of meiosis, where homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material, leading to new combinations of alleles.
4. Independent assortment refers to the random distribution of maternal and paternal chromosomes into gametes during metaphase I, resulting in a variety of possible genetic combinations.
5. Random fertilization adds to genetic variation as it involves the random union of gametes from two parents, further increasing the diversity of offspring.