What is the significance of meiosis in human reproduction?

Meiosis plays a crucial role in human reproduction by reducing the chromosome number by half to produce haploid gametes—sperms in males and eggs in females. This reduction is essential because it ensures that when fertilization occurs, the resulting zygote has the correct diploid number of chromosomes, maintaining the species' chromosome count across generations.

During meiosis, the original diploid cell undergoes two rounds of cell division, ultimately producing four genetically distinct haploid cells. This process not only halves the chromosome number but also introduces genetic variation through mechanisms such as crossing over and independent assortment of chromosomes. This genetic diversity is important for the evolution and adaptability of a population.

Other options do not accurately describe the primary significance of meiosis. The creation of identical diploid cells pertains more to mitosis, while tissue repair is a function linked to mitotic processes. The promotion of genetic diversity through mutation is a separate concept from meiosis itself; although genetic variation does occur, it is more directly a result of recombination and independent assortment in meiosis rather than mutations.