What is the significance of meiosis?

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Definition of Meiosis**: Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in the formation of gametes (sperm and eggs). It is often referred to as reductional division.

2. **Formation of Gametes**: The primary significance of meiosis is its role in the formation of gametes. During sexual reproduction, meiosis produces haploid cells (gametes) from diploid cells, ensuring that when two gametes fuse during fertilization, the resulting zygote has the correct diploid chromosome number.

3. **Genetic Variation through Crossing Over**: Another important significance of meiosis is crossing over, which occurs during prophase I. This process allows for the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes, leading to new combinations of traits and increased genetic diversity in the offspring.

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