# Explain how meiosis produces gametes that are genetically different from each other.

> AQA A-Level Biology (7402) — 3.4.3 Mutation and Meiosis · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Meiosis involves two divisions (meiosis I and meiosis II)
2. Homologous pairs of chromosomes separate during the first division
3. Chromosomes are distributed/sorted randomly (independent assortment) so each gamete receives a different combination of chromosomes
4. Four gametes are produced, each with half the chromosome number (haploid)
5. Mutations can occur during meiosis, introducing further genetic variation into gametes

## Key terms

- [meiosis](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/meiosis)
- [gametes](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/gametes)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA A-Level Biology (7402)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-meiosis-produces-gametes-that-d75714bf) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.