What is the process called that results in the formation of haploid gametes, such as sperm and eggs?

The process that leads to the formation of haploid gametes, such as sperm and eggs, is called meiosis. During meiosis, a diploid cell undergoes two rounds of cell division to produce four genetically diverse haploid cells. This is essential for sexual reproduction because it ensures that when fertilization occurs, the resulting zygote has the correct diploid number of chromosomes, half from each parent.

Meiosis includes two key phases: meiosis I, where homologous chromosomes are separated, and meiosis II, similar to mitosis, where sister chromatids are separated. This process not only reduces the chromosome number by half but also promotes genetic variation through mechanisms such as crossing over and independent assortment of chromosomes.

The other processes mentioned do not contribute to the formation of haploid gametes. Mitosis results in the replication of diploid cells, maintaining the same chromosome number. Fertilization is the fusion of two gametes, leading to the formation of a zygote, but it does not create haploid cells. Binary fission is a form of asexual reproduction primarily in prokaryotes, where a single organism divides into two identical entities, which is unrelated to gamete formation.