Crossing over takes place in

Options

A. Mitotic cell
B. Meiotic cell
C. Mutating cell
D. Amitotic cell

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Crossing Over:**
- Crossing over refers to the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes. This process is crucial for genetic diversity.

2. **Identifying the Process:**
- Crossing over occurs specifically during meiosis, which is the type of cell division that results in gametes (sperm and eggs).

3. **Locating the Stage of Meiosis:**
- Within meiosis, crossing over takes place during prophase I, particularly in a sub-stage called pachytene. This is when homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange segments.

4. **Differentiating Between Cell Types:**
- The question provides options: mitotic cell, meiotic cell, mutating cell, and a non-mitotic cell.
- Mitotic cells undergo mitosis, which is for somatic cell division and does not involve crossing over.
- Mutating cells refer to cells undergoing mutations, which is a different process and not related to crossing over.
- Non-mitotic cells do not undergo mitosis and are not relevant to the process of crossing over.

5. **Conclusion:**
- The correct answer is that crossing over takes place in meiotic cells, specifically during the pachytene stage of prophase I of meiosis.

**Final Answer:**
Crossing over takes place in meiotic cells.

---