What is the result of meiosis and how many divisions occur?

• A. Two divisions producing four genetically different haploid gametes
• B. One division producing two diploid cells
• C. Two divisions producing two haploid cells
• D. Three divisions producing four diploid cells

Answer: (A)

Meiosis reduces the chromosome number by half and produces four haploid gametes. This happens through two rounds of division: meiosis I, which separates homologous chromosomes, and meiosis II, which separates sister chromatids. Because of crossing over in prophase I and the random orientation of chromosomes during metaphase I, the four gametes end up genetically different from one another.