Question Detail
Question
The formation of chiasma(ta) is an important feature of meiotic divisions because it: A. ensures that the same genetic characteristics appear in daughter cells as in the parents B. provides opportunities for new genotypes to arise C. prevents homologous chromosomes from pairing D. occurs among non sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes.
Correct Answer
Option B is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
Chiasmata are the physical manifestations of crossing over. Crossing over shuffles alleles between homologous chromosomes, creating new combinations of genes on a single chromosome. This increases genetic variation and provides opportunities for new genotypes to arise in offspring.
Hint
It's a source of genetic recombination.