Final answer:
Crossing-over occurs during prophase I of meiosis, and it is the exchange of genetic material between non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes. This process, also known as recombination, creates unique combinations of genes and increases genetic variation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Crossing-over occurs during prophase I of meiosis, and it is the exchange of genetic material between non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes. As homologous chromosomes align, chromatids from each chromosome can cross over and recombine, resulting in the exchange of corresponding segments of genetic material. This process, also known as recombination, creates unique combinations of genes and increases genetic variation.