[Campbell Biology P.303] Why is the reduction of chromosome number in meiosis necessary for ... | Practice Question

Why is the reduction of chromosome number in meiosis necessary for organisms that reproduce sexually?

  • A: To ensure the offspring are genetically identical to one of the parents.
  • B: To prevent the chromosome number from doubling in each generation.
  • C: To allow for the separation of sister chromatids.
  • D: To produce diploid cells from haploid cells.

Explanation

Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of two gametes sperm and egg . If these gametes were not haploid half the chromosome number , the resulting offspring would have double the chromosome number of the parents. Meiosis ensures that the chromosome number is halved in the gametes, so that fertilization restores the normal diploid number for the species.