Answer: Halves the chromosome number so syngamy restores diploidy.
- A Produces genetically identical gametes
- B Doubles the chromosome number in each new generation
- C Halves the chromosome number so syngamy restores diploidy
- D Prevents any variation in offspring
Correct answer: C. Halves the chromosome number so syngamy restores diploidy
Explanation: Meiosis reduces the chromosome number to half in gametes, so that fusion of two gametes at syngamy restores and maintains the species-specific diploid number.
Structure of a mature flower. Image: LadyofHats (Mariana Ruiz), Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons.
Concept context
Asexual and sexual reproduction, flower anatomy, pollination, fertilization, and seed development.