Final answer:
Telophase of mitosis does not contribute to genetic variation in meiosis. The processes that lead to genetic variation during meiosis include crossing over, independent assortment, and random fertilization, each introducing a different combination of alleles in the resulting gametes. The correct answer is option d.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a typical cell division by meiosis, all of the following contribute to genetic variation: crossing over, independent assortment, and random fertilization. However, telophase of mitosis does not contribute to genetic variation in meiosis. These processes are critical for generating diversity in the gametes produced by sexually reproducing organisms.
Crossing over refers to the exchange of genetic material between non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes during meiosis I, resulting in new combinations of alleles.
Independent assortment occurs when homologous chromosome pairs align randomly at the metaphase plate during meiosis I, leading to different combinations of maternal and paternal chromosomes in the resulting gametes.
Random fertilization amplifies genetic variation as it involves the fusion of two gametes from different parents, each with its unique combination of alleles.
Conversely, telophase of mitosis is a stage in cell division that is aimed at producing two cells identical to the parent cell, and therefore, it does not contribute to genetic diversity in the same way as meiosis does.