In a typical diploid eukaryotic cell, what is the final product of meiosis?

• A. Two genetically identical diploid daughter cells
• B. Four genetically distinct haploid daughter cells (gametes or spores)
• C. Four genetically identical diploid daughter cells
• D. One diploid cell with duplicated chromosomes (sister chromatids still joined)

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the starting point of meiosis, which is a diploid cell containing two sets of chromosomes (one from each parent).
2. Step 2: Recall that meiosis consists of two consecutive divisions: meiosis I and meiosis II, each with distinct roles in chromosome separation.
3. Step 3: During meiosis I, homologous chromosomes are separated, reducing the chromosome number by half, resulting in two haploid cells with duplicated chromosomes.
4. Step 4: During meiosis II, sister chromatids are separated, similar to mitosis, producing four haploid daughter cells.
5. Step 5: Recognize that these four haploid daughter cells are genetically distinct due to crossing over and independent assortment, and they serve as gametes or spores.