What is meiosis?
Meiosis is a cell division process that reduces chromosome number and contributes to genetic variation in sexually reproducing organisms.
How it works and key principles
Stages: After DNA replication, two divisions follow. Homologous chromosomes separate in the first, sister chromatids in the second. Crossing over and independent assortment create new combinations of genes. In humans the resulting reproductive cells typically carry one set of chromosomes.
Evidence, examples and limits
Importance and errors: Fusion of reproductive cells restores the usual chromosome number at fertilization. Errors in chromosome separation can produce cells with altered chromosome numbers. Meiosis differs from mitosis used in growth and repair, and life cycles vary across organisms.
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