Final answer:
The significance of meiosis to genetics lies in its role in producing genetic diversity within a population through the formation of gametes. option c is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The significance of meiosis to genetics is most accurately described as option c: the genetic diversity it produces within a population. This diversity is crucial for the survival and adaptation of species. Meiosis is a process where a single cell divides twice to produce four cells containing half the original amount of genetic information.
These cells are gametes, which, when combined with another gamete during fertilization, restore the full set of chromosomes and introduce genetic variation. This variation arises from processes such as crossing-over during prophase I and the random alignment of chromosomes during metaphase I, making each gamete unique.
Contrary to other options, meiosis does not result in offspring having all of their parents' genetic material (option a), nor does it produce duplicate DNA to make clones (option b). Additionally, meiosis is not involved in asexual reproduction (option d), but rather it is a key component of sexual reproduction, achieving genetic diversity necessary for evolution and the long-term survival of species.