Final answer:
The process that maintains the same chromosome number is semiconservative replication in DNA and recombination or crossover during meiosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process described, which maintains the same chromosome number, is called semiconservative replication. During this process, one strand of the DNA molecule is conserved (kept the same) in each new DNA molecule.
In addition, during meiosis, a process called recombination or crossover occurs, where segments of homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material. This shuffling of alleles on the same chromosome leads to a combination of maternal and paternal alleles on the same chromosome without altering the gene order.
Overall, the process of maintaining the same chromosome number during inheritance is important for genetic diversity and proper cell function.