Explanations (Mitosis, Meiosis, Genetics,
Reproduction)|Latest Updated 2026
Which of the following is NOT a primary function of mitosis?
Generate genetic diversity
Which of the following is NOT a primary function of meiosis?
Growth
Using the figure below from your booklet and your understanding of mitosis and meiosis, select
the biological process that occurs at each point during the human life cycle.
Meiosis - chromosome number is halved to produce haploid gametes
Fertilization > egg and sperm fuse to produce a diploid zygote
Mitosis > cells with the same set of DNA divide and develop into an organism
Mitosis AND Meiosis > multicellular adults use mitosis for repair and growth; adults produce
sperm and egg via meiosis
Based on what you've learned in class, why is generating genetic diversity important from an
evolutionary perspective?
Meiosis generates genetic diversity in eggs and sperm. This diversity results in offspring
containing slight differences in DNA from their parents, allowing for genetic diversity between
generations.
One way this diversity is important for survival and reproduction of individuals in populations is
that organisms have a better chance of surviving in a changing environment.
Some women use ovulation kits to determine when they are ovulating. Ovulation kits work by
detecting the amount of luteinizing hormone (LH) in a woman's urine.
A woman took an ovulation test and the levels of LH were high in her urine.
Based on what you know about the female reproductive cycle from class and your booklet, why
do you think ovulation kits are designed to detect LH? At what stage in the monthly female
reproductive cycle is this woman, given the information above?
About 12 days into the female reproductive cycle, the levels of estrogen peak in a woman's
body. This estrogen peak triggers a surge of LH and follicle-stimulating hormone. The peak of LH
triggers the release of the egg from the follicle about 1-2 days following the surge.