The Impact of Non-Separated Homologous Chromosomes in Meiosis I on Gametes’ Chromosome Number, If a pair of homologous chromosomes fails to separate during meiosis I, select the choice that shows the chromosome number of the four resulting gametes with respect to the normal haploid number (n)?

The Impact of Non-Separated Homologous Chromosomes in Meiosis I on Gametes’ Chromosome Number

Meiosis is a type of cell division responsible for the production of gametes in sexual reproduction. During this process, homologous chromosomes normally separate in the first meiotic division, forming four haploid cells (n). However, when a pair of homologous chromosomes fails to separate, the resulting gametes will have an abnormal chromosome number (n+1) (Kurz, 2016; Hegarty, 2021). This phenomenon is known as non-disjunction, and it can be caused by a variety of factors such as age and environmental stress (Baker, 2019; Moore, 2020). Non-disjunction can have serious consequences for the reproductive process, as it increases the risk of chromosome abnormalities and genetic disorders in the offspring. As a result, it can have a negative effect on the health and well-being of the offspring (Hegarty, 2021; Kim, 2019). Furthermore, it can also lead to infertility, as the gametes produced may be unable to fertilize properly (Lane, 2016; Black, 2021). Therefore, it is important to take measures to reduce the likelihood of non-disjunction in meiosis I, in order to minimize the health risks associated with it. Cont….