During meiosis, one diploid cell produces four haploid gametes. Two events during meiosis cause those gametes to differ genetically from one another.

Which pair of events produces new combinations of alleles in the gametes?

ADNA replication and cytokinesis
BFertilization and gene expression
CCrossing over between homologous chromosomes and independent assortment of chromosome pairs
DMitosis of the parent cell and duplication of the centrioles

The two key events during meiosis that produce genetic variation in gametes are crossing over and independent assortment. Crossing over allows the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes, while independent assortment randomly distributes maternal and paternal chromosomes into gametes. This combination is essential for genetic diversity in sexually reproducing organisms.

Explanation:

Understanding Genetic Variation in Gametes

During meiosis, a diploid cell undergoes two main processes that produce genetic variation in the resulting haploid gametes: crossing over and independent assortment.

1. Crossing Over

This event occurs during prophase I of meiosis, where homologous chromosomes exchange segments of genetic material. This results in new combinations of alleles in the gametes. For example, if one chromosome carries alleles A and B and its homologous partner carries alleles a and b, crossing over can produce gametes with combinations such as Ab and aB, thus increasing genetic diversity.

2. Independent Assortment

Independent assortment occurs during metaphase I, where the orientation of chromosome pairs toward the poles is random. This means that the distribution of maternal and paternal chromosomes into gametes is varied. For instance, if there are two pairs of chromosomes (AB and ab), the gametes can end up being AB, Ab, aB, or ab, showcasing different allele combinations.

The combined effects of crossing over and independent assortment lead to a vast array of genetic combinations in the haploid gametes, which is crucial for evolution and natural selection.

Thus, the correct answer to the question posed is C. Crossing over between homologous chromosomes and independent assortment of chromosome pairs.

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