What is the exchange of genetic material between two homologous chromosomes during meiosis?

The exchange of genetic material between two homologous chromosomes during meiosis is known as crossing over. This process occurs during prophase I of meiosis when homologous chromosomes come together to form a tetrad. While paired in this arrangement, segments of DNA are exchanged between non-sister chromatids. This exchange results in new combinations of alleles on the chromosomes, contributing to genetic variation in the gametes produced.

The importance of crossing over lies in its contribution to genetic diversity, which is crucial for evolution and adaptation in populations. It ensures that offspring have different combinations of traits than those of their parents, enhancing the overall genetic variability within a population.

The other options do not accurately describe this specific process:

• Independent assortment refers to the random orientation of chromosome pairs during metaphase I, leading to the independent segregation of maternal and paternal chromosomes.

• Segregation is the process by which alleles separate during gamete formation, ensuring that each gamete receives only one allele from each pair of genes.

• Chromosomal duplication refers to the process that occurs before meiosis starts, where chromosomes are replicated to form sister chromatids.

Thus, crossing over is pivotal in reshuffling the genetic deck, which plays a key role in the genetic diversity observed in sexually