What is the primary purpose of meiosis?

The primary purpose of meiosis is to generate genetic variation. Meiosis is a specialized form of cell division that occurs in sexually reproducing organisms. Unlike mitosis, which produces two identical daughter cells for growth and repair, meiosis results in four genetically distinct daughter cells, each with half the number of chromosomes of the original cell. This is achieved through processes such as crossing over and independent assortment, which shuffle genetic material and lead to unique combinations of genes in the gametes. These gametes are then used in reproduction, allowing for genetic diversity in the offspring, which is crucial for evolution and adaptation in changing environments.