Question

For which of the following is the number the same in human males and females?

(A) interruptions in meiotic divisions

(B) functional gametes produced by meiosis

(C) meiotic divisions required to produce each gamete

(D) different cell types produced by meiosis.

Short answer

1. The option “interruptions in meiotic divisions” isfalse.

2. The option “functional gametes produced by meiosis” isfalse.

3. The option “meiotic divisions required to produce each gamete” is true.

4. The option “different cell types produced by meiosis” is false.

Step-by-step solution

Meiosis

Meiosis is a type of division that is otherwise also known as reduction division. This type of cell division is only observed in germ cells that give rise to gametes. The gametes will possess only half the number of chromosomes from the parent.

Explanation of option ‘(A)’

When meiotic divisions are interrupted, it can cause mishappenings in the gamete formation. Sometimes it can cause chromosomal anomalies in the developing fetus. This type of mishappenings does not occur equally in males and females because they are not normal.

Thus, interruptions in meiotic divisions do not result in the same number of chromosomes in males and females.

Therefore, the given option is false.

Explanation of option ‘(B)’

The functional gametes that are produced by males and females are not the same. Females produce lesser eggs when compared to sperms produced by males. Males have to produce multiple sperms to ensure successful fertilization.

Thus, the number of gametes in males and females is not the same.

Therefore, the given option is false.

Explanation of option ‘(C)’

The number of meiotic divisions that a germ cell has to undergo to produce gametes is the same in both males and females. In meiotic division, a single parent cell undergoes chromosomal division to produce separate gametes. Once the chromosomes are separated, the cell undergoes nuclear division to produce gametes.

Thus, the meiotic divisions required to produce gametes are the same in both males and females.

Therefore, the given option is true.

Explanation of option ‘(D)’

The cell types that are produced by meiotic divisions are not the same in males and females. The males produce sperms through meiotic divisions, while females produce a single function egg or ovum every month. Therefore, the gametes produced are not the same structurally or in number.

Thus, the meiotic divisions in males and females do not produce the same gametes.

Therefore, the given option is false.