Final answer:
Crossing over during meiosis creates recombinant chromosomes like chromosome C from the initial chromosomes A and B, contributing to genetic variation.
Step-by-step explanation:
During meiosis, homologous chromosomes align and exchange segments of genetic material in a process known as crossing over. This event may occur during prophase I of meiosis I, where non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange DNA. This leads to the production of recombinant chromosomes that have a combination of alleles different from either parent.
The resulting chromosomes may carry alleles from both parental chromosomes, thus creating new combinations like chromosome C from the original chromosomes A and B. It is essential for the generation of genetic diversity in offspring.