Crossing over is a process that occurs during meiosis and is responsible for producing genetic variation. During meiosis, chromosomes exchange genetic material, resulting in the formation of new combinations of alleles. Cross over occurs when two homologous chromosomes break and exchange sections of their DNA, creating a new combination of alleles and a new set of genetic information. This process increases the amount of genetic variation within a species and is an important source of variation that allows for adaptation to changing environmental conditions. Cross over is also essential for sexual reproduction, allowing for the creation of new combinations of alleles in the offspring that are not found in either parent.
cromosome