Final answer:
Meiosis is the cell division process that produces four genetically unique haploid daughter cells, essential for sexual reproduction. It involves two separate divisions, meiosis I and II, which result in genetic diversity in the offspring.Thus the correct option is 3.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mode of cell division which results in four daughter cells that are genetically different, each containing one haploid set of chromosomes, is known as meiosis. Unlike mitosis, which occurs in somatic cells and results in two genetically identical daughter cells, meiosis involves two rounds of cell division. Starting with one diploid cell, meiosis goes through two sequential stages named meiosis I and meiosis II, each comprising several phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. In meiosis I, homologous chromosomes are separated, reducing the chromosome number by half. Then in meiosis II, similar to mitosis, the sister chromatids are separated, creating four unique haploid cells that can develop into gametes.
Sexual reproduction requires the combination of these haploid cells (gametes), which ensures genetic diversity through processes such as crossing over and independent assortment during meiosis. This makes meiosis essential for the continued variation observed in sexually reproducing populations and contributes to the evolutionary process.