AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Sex cells are formed through a particular kind of cell division called meiosis. Unlike in normal cell division (mitosis), the genetic material of the original (parent) cell is divided up twice. As in most other cells in the body, the nucleus of the original cell contains the person’s full set of genetic information.

Detailed explanation-2: -Meiosis only occurs in reproductive cells, as the goal is to create haploid gametes that will be used in fertilization. Meiosis is important to, but not the same as, sexual reproduction. Meiosis is necessary for sexual reproduction to occur, as it results in the formation of gametes (sperm and eggs).

Detailed explanation-3: -Meiosis is a type of cell division in sexually reproducing organisms that reduces the number of chromosomes in gametes (the sex cells, or egg and sperm). In humans, body (or somatic) cells are diploid, containing two sets of chromosomes (one from each parent).

Detailed explanation-4: -Both sexual and asexual organisms go through the process of mitosis. It happens in the cells of the body known as the somatic cells and produces cells related to growth and repair. Mitosis is essential for asexual reproduction, regeneration, and growth. It does not make sex cells or gametes.

Detailed explanation-5: -Because meiosis creates cells that are destined to become gametes (or reproductive cells), this reduction in chromosome number is critical-without it, the union of two gametes during fertilization would result in offspring with twice the normal number of chromosomes!