Final answer:
Independent assortment and random fertilization contribute to the genetic variation in offspring. These processes create a wide range of genotypes and contribute to the genetic diversity in populations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Independent assortment and random fertilization contribute to the genetic variation in offspring. Independent assortment occurs during meiosis when homologous chromosomes randomly line up at the metaphase plate, resulting in different combinations of chromosomes in gametes. Random fertilization refers to the random union of gametes during sexual reproduction, leading to unique combinations of chromosomes in offspring. These processes together create a wide range of genotypes and contribute to the genetic diversity in populations.