Question Detail
Question
Why is meiosis required for germ cell formation, yet is never used by somatic cells? A. Meiosis is the cell division process that produces haploid products B. Meiosis is a process that produces one sperm and one egg from each dividing germ cell C. Meiosis is a specialized form of cell division that produces four haploid cells instead of just two.
Correct Answer
Option A is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
Gametes (sperm and egg) must be haploid so that upon fertilization, the diploid number is restored. Meiosis is the only process that produces haploid cells from a diploid germ cell. Somatic cells need to remain diploid for growth and function.
Hint
Gametes need half the number of chromosomes.