What is the expected outcome of meiosis in terms of chromosome number?

• A. Diploid cells
• B. Haploid cells
• C. Tetraploid cells
• D. Triploid cells

Answer: (B)

The expected outcome of meiosis is the production of haploid cells. During meiosis, a diploid cell, which contains two sets of chromosomes (one set from each parent), undergoes two rounds of division—meiosis I and meiosis II.

In meiosis I, homologous chromosomes are separated, leading to two cells that each have one set of chromosomes, but these chromosomes are still composed of sister chromatids. Then, in meiosis II, the sister chromatids are separated, resulting in four haploid cells. Each of these haploid cells contains half the original number of chromosomes, which is crucial for sexual reproduction, as it ensures that when fertilization occurs, the resulting zygote restores the diploid state typical of the species.

This reduction in chromosome number is vital for maintaining genetic stability across generations. Each haploid gamete (sperm or egg) can combine with another haploid gamete to restore the diploid chromosome number in the offspring. This process ensures genetic diversity through recombination and independent assortment during meiosis.