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Which of the following events occurs in metaphase I of meiosis and contributes to genetic variation?

  • A. Independent assortment
  • B. Reduction division
  • C. Crossing over
  • D. Homologous pairing
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Independent assortment is the correct answer as it occurs during metaphase I of meiosis. This process leads to genetic variation by randomly aligning homologous chromosomes along the metaphase plate, creating diverse combinations of maternal and paternal chromosomes in the resulting daughter cells. Consequently, this random assortment increases genetic diversity among the gametes that are formed. During independent assortment, homologous chromosomes randomly align at the metaphase plate, leading to different combinations of chromosomes in the daughter cells. This shuffling of genetic material from maternal and paternal sources results in offspring with unique genetic makeups, contributing to genetic diversity within a population.