What process is responsible for producing haploid cells?

Meiosis is the process responsible for producing haploid cells, which are cells with half the original number of chromosomes, specifically in the context of sexual reproduction. During meiosis, a diploid cell (with two sets of chromosomes) undergoes two rounds of division: meiosis I and meiosis II. This results in four genetically diverse haploid cells, each contributing one set of chromosomes, which are essential for the formation of gametes—sperm and egg cells in animals.

The importance of meiosis lies in its role in maintaining the chromosome number across generations when gametes fuse during fertilization. By reducing the chromosome number in the gametes, meiosis ensures that when fertilization occurs, the resulting zygote restores the organism’s diploid state, preserving genetic stability over successive generations. This is crucial for maintaining genetic diversity through processes such as crossing over and independent assortment that occur during meiosis.