Question

Which of the following statements BEST describes the importance of meiosis in human evolution?

	Crossing over creates novel genetic sequences that can be passed to the next generation.
	Meiosis produces cells that contain varied and heritable DNA so that humans have variation (that ultimately allows us to adapt to changing environments).
	Mutation shuffles variation during meiosis ensuring that the new daughter cells are not identical to the parent cells.
	All of the above.

Answer 1

Crossing over creates novel genetic sequences that can be passed to the next generation.

Crossing over is a process that happens between homologous chromosomes in order to increase genetic diversity. During crossing over, part of one chromosome is exchanged with another. This allows for genetic diversity, which will help cells participate in the survival of the fittest and evolution.