Question

Explain why meiosis is called reduction division.

Answer 1

Meiosis is called reduction division because it reduces the number of chromosomes in the daughter cells to exactly half of the parent cell.

• A diploid parent cell (2n) divides to form four haploid daughter cells (n).
• This division is essential in reproductive organs to produce gametes (sperm and ova).
• It ensures that when fertilization occurs, the original diploid number of chromosomes is restored in the zygote, keeping the chromosome count constant across generations.