The meiotic division of cells leads to the production of cells that

• A. Contain the full number of chromosomes.
• B. Contain the same number of chromosomes as the parent cells.
• C. Contain half the usual number of chromosomes.
• D. Contain double the usual number of chromosomes.

Answer: (C)

Meiosis halves the chromosome count to produce gametes with a single set of chromosomes. Starting from a cell with two sets, the process involves two rounds of division that separate homologous chromosomes and then sister chromatids, yielding final cells that each contain half the usual number. These products are haploid, not diploid, so when two gametes fuse during fertilization, the zygote restores the normal, full chromosome complement. If chromosomes remained at the full count, or if the same as the parent’s count were produced, there would be no reduction. If the number were doubled, it would imply an abnormal gain in chromosomes.