Question

The random separation of maternal and paternal homologous chromosomes during meiosis I leads to independent assortment.

Independent assortment occurs when pairs of homologous chromosomes line up during meiosis I and the homologs separate. This leads to a variety of combinations of maternal and paternal chromosomes. Each daughter cell gets a random assortment of maternal and paternal chromosomes.

Answer 1

During meiosis I, independent assortment occurs due to the random separation of maternal and paternal homologous chromosomes. This process results in various combinations of maternal and paternal chromosomes in daughter cells, contributing to genetic diversity.

Step-by-step explanation:

Independent assortment is a key event during meiosis I, where homologous chromosomes align randomly at the metaphase plate and subsequently separate into daughter cells. This random alignment and segregation of homologous chromosomes result in numerous possible combinations of maternal and paternal chromosomes in the gametes. As a result, each daughter cell receives a unique assortment of chromosomes, contributing significantly to genetic variability among offspring.

This genetic diversity generated by independent assortment enhances the adaptability and evolutionary potential of populations.