Final answer:
The abbreviation 2n stands for 'diploid,' which describes a cell with two sets of chromosomes. Meiosis typically produces four haploid cells from one diploid cell. This occurs without a second round of DNA replication between the two meiotic divisions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The abbreviation 2n stands for diploid, which refers to a cell that contains two sets of chromosomes. This is common in the somatic cells of most organisms, including humans. During sexual reproduction, haploid gametes (sperm and egg cells), each with a single set of chromosomes (n), fuse to form a diploid zygote (2n), therefore restoring the diploid number.
Meiosis is the process through which a diploid cell divides to produce four haploid daughter cells. It consists of two divisions: Meiosis I and Meiosis II, without a second round of DNA replication between them. This mechanism ensures genetic diversity while halving the chromosome number, which is why sexually reproducing organisms rely on meiosis for the production of gametes.
Regarding review question number 2, we can conclude that Meiosis usually produces four haploid cells, which corresponds to option c from the question's choices.