Meiosis results in cells that are n (haploid).
The question 'Is meiosis 2N or n?' is a bit misleading as meiosis is not a state that is either 2N or n; rather, it is a process that begins with a 2N (diploid) cell and ends with n (haploid) cells. To clarify, let's break down the process:
Understanding Meiosis and Ploidy
Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the number of chromosomes in a parent cell by half, creating four haploid daughter cells. This process is essential for sexual reproduction.
The terms 2N and n refer to the ploidy of a cell:
- 2N (Diploid): This means a cell has two sets of chromosomes, one set inherited from each parent. Most somatic (body) cells are diploid.
- n (Haploid): This means a cell has only one set of chromosomes. Gametes (sperm and egg cells) are haploid.
According to the provided reference:
Meiosis consists of 2 cell divisions: Meiosis I and Meiosis II. Meiosis starts with a diploid (2n) parent cell that divides to make 4 haploid (n) cells.
Meiosis Explained
Meiosis is divided into two main stages:
- Meiosis I:
- This stage separates homologous chromosomes, reducing the chromosome number by half.
- A diploid (2n) cell divides into two haploid (n) cells.
- Meiosis II:
- This stage separates sister chromatids.
- Each of the two haploid cells from Meiosis I divides, resulting in four haploid (n) cells.
Therefore, while meiosis *starts* with a 2n cell, the end result of meiosis is four *n* cells.
Summary
The process of meiosis begins with a diploid (2n) cell and concludes with four haploid (n) cells. Therefore, the result of meiosis is cells that are **n** (haploid).
