What process leads to the shuffling of alleles and increases genetic diversity?

Meiosis is the process that leads to the shuffling of alleles and significantly enhances genetic diversity. During meiosis, particularly in the stages of prophase I, homologous chromosomes undergo crossing over, where sections of DNA are exchanged between non-sister chromatids. This exchange creates new combinations of alleles, which means that the gametes produced (sperm and eggs) carry unique genetic information that is different from either parent.

Furthermore, meiosis involves two rounds of cell division, leading to four haploid cells, each genetically distinct from the others due to independent assortment and recombination events. This genetic variation is crucial for evolution and adaptation in populations, as it allows for a wider range of traits that may be beneficial in changing environments.

In contrast, mitosis is primarily a process for growth and tissue repair, producing two genetically identical daughter cells without shuffling alleles, while replication refers to the copying of DNA before cell division rather than the mixing of genetic material. Cytokinesis is the physical division of the cytoplasm during cell division and does not contribute to genetic variation itself. Thus, meiosis is distinctly responsible for generating genetic diversity through its unique mechanisms.