AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -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-2: -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!

Detailed explanation-3: -Meiosis is important for three main reasons: it allows sexual reproduction of diploid organisms, it enables genetic diversity, and it aids the repair of genetic defects.

Detailed explanation-4: -Both males and females use meiosis to produce their gametes, although there are some key differences between the sexes at certain stages. In females, the process of meiosis is called oogenesis, since it produces oocytes and ultimately yields mature ova(eggs).