Question

Which of the following is a true statement about crossing over and independent assortment?

(A) Independent assortment increases genetic variation while crossing over increases the amount of DNA passed on.
(B) Crossing over is a random process while independent assortment is a predictable process.
(C) Independent assortment is a process of mitosis and crossing over is a process in meiosis.
(D) Both processes contribute to the genetic variation of daughter cells that are produced during meiosis.

Answer 1

Both crossing over and independent assortment contribute to genetic diversity, occurring during different stages of meiosis and providing unique combinations of genetic material in gametes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct statement about crossing over and independent assortment is (D) Both processes contribute to the genetic variation of daughter cells that are produced during meiosis. Crossing over occurs during prophase I of meiosis when homologous chromosomes exchange segments of their genetic material, producing recombinant chromosomes, which increases genetic diversity. Independent assortment occurs during anaphase I of meiosis when chromosomes are randomly distributed to the gametes, contributing to genetic variation. Together, these mechanisms ensure that each gamete contains a unique set of genetic information.