Question

Meiosis is sometimes called reduction division. what does this mean and why is it important

Answer 1

Meiosis is called reduction division because it reduces the chromosome number by half, producing haploid cells crucial for sexual reproduction. It consists of two stages, Meiosis I and Meiosis II, resulting in four unique haploid gametes.

Step-by-step explanation:

Meiosis and Reduction Division

Meiosis is known as reduction division because during Meiosis I, the chromosome number is reduced by half in the resulting cells, creating haploid cells from the original diploid state of the parental nucleus. This is crucial for sexual reproduction as it ensures that when gametes (sex cells) merge during fertilization, the resulting zygote has the correct number of chromosomes, preserving the species' specific chromosome number. Meiosis consists of two rounds of cell division: Meiosis I and Meiosis II.

During Meiosis I, homologous chromosomes are separated, and this reduction in the number of chromosome sets – from diploid (two sets) to haploid (one set) – creates daughter nuclei that have one chromosome from each pair. Following that, Meiosis II occurs, akin to mitosis, where sister chromatids are separated resulting in four unique haploid cells. The overall significance of meiosis is in the production of gametes for sexual reproduction, allowing for genetic diversity through crossing over and independent assortment of chromosomes. Monosomy is a related concept where a diploid organism is missing one chromosome due to errors in meiosis, often resulting in developmental issues.

Answer 2

Meiosis is a kind of cell division. It will lead to 4 daughter cells which each has only half of their chromosomes comparing to the parent. The end product has less chromosomes than the original that's why it's called reduction division.

Meiosis is important because the products are usually seen in gametes, which is sperms and eggs. If they get fertilized, they will form a zygote, and this is reproduction. Meiosis makes sure that the zygote has the right number of chromosomes, like half and half equals the correct amount chromosomes the organism should have. This also leads to diversity which is very important and a must in sexual reproduction.