The purpose of meiosis is to produce sex cells (gametes) with half the usual number of chromosomes and to create genetic variation in offspring. This makes stable sexual reproduction and evolution possible.
Main purpose
Meiosis reduces the chromosome number from diploid (two sets) to haploid (one set), so that when sperm and egg fuse at fertilization, the normal diploid number is restored rather than doubled each generation. This keeps a species’ chromosome number stable over time and prevents harmful chromosome accumulation.
Role in sexual reproduction
Meiosis occurs in specialized germ cells to form sperm and egg cells used in sexual reproduction. These haploid gametes can then join to form a diploid zygote, which develops into a new organism.
Genetic variation
During meiosis, processes such as crossing over (exchange of DNA between homologous chromosomes) and independent assortment (random separation of chromosome pairs) shuffle genetic information. This produces genetically unique gametes, increasing variation in a population and helping species adapt and evolve.
