What is the term for the process where homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material during meiosis?

The process where homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material during meiosis is called crossing over. This occurs during prophase I of meiosis, where segments of DNA are swapped between non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes. This exchange increases genetic diversity in the gametes that are produced, leading to offspring that may have different traits than those of their parents.

Crossing over is a crucial mechanism contributing to the genetic variability observed in sexually reproducing organisms. It allows for new combinations of alleles, enhancing the potential for adaptation and evolution within populations. This process is distinct from other phenomena like segregation, which refers to the distribution of chromosomes into gametes, independent assortment, which involves the random assortment of different genes during gamete formation, and transcription, which is the process of copying DNA to RNA. Understanding crossing over is essential for grasping how genetic variation occurs through sexual reproduction.