Unlike mitosis, meiosis results in the formation of:

• A. four genetically unique haploid cells
• B. two identical diploid cells
• C. four genetically identical diploid cells
• D. one genetically identical daughter cell

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key difference between mitosis and meiosis: Mitosis results in two identical diploid cells, while meiosis results in four genetically unique haploid cells. This is due to the reduction division and genetic recombination in meiosis.
2. Recall that meiosis consists of two consecutive divisions: Meiosis I and Meiosis II. Meiosis I reduces the chromosome number by half, creating haploid cells, and Meiosis II separates sister chromatids.
3. Consider the role of crossing over during Prophase I of Meiosis I. This process exchanges genetic material between homologous chromosomes, contributing to genetic diversity in the resulting cells.
4. Note that meiosis produces gametes (sperm and egg cells in animals) or spores (in plants and fungi), which are haploid and genetically unique due to independent assortment and crossing over.
5. Eliminate incorrect options based on the understanding of meiosis: Two identical diploid cells and four genetically identical diploid cells are products of mitosis, not meiosis. One genetically identical daughter cell is not a result of either process.