# Explain why meiosis is important for producing genetic variation in a species.

> Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0) — 3.2 Meiosis · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Meiosis produces four genetically different daughter cells / gametes
2. The gametes produced are haploid (contain half the number of chromosomes)
3. At fertilisation, the nuclei of male and female gametes fuse, restoring the full (diploid) chromosome number
4. Because each gamete is genetically different, the offspring produced by fertilisation show genetic variation

## Key terms

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

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-meiosis-is-important-for-2a981ca8) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.