In which stage of cell division does genetic material get split to form gametes?

The process of gamete formation involves two stages of meiosis, which is a specialized form of cell division. During meiosis, the purpose is to reduce the chromosome number by half to create gametes, such as sperm and eggs.

In meiosis I, homologous chromosomes are separated into different cells. This is crucial because it ensures that each gamete receives only one chromosome from each homologous pair. As a result, this stage is vital for maintaining the correct chromosome number in the resulting gametes.

Meiosis II further divides the cells produced in meiosis I, where sister chromatids are separated. This stage is similar to mitosis, but it occurs in the haploid cells created by meiosis I.

Both stages work together to ensure the final gametes contain half the genetic material compared to the original parent cell. Therefore, both meiosis I and meiosis II contribute to the proper distribution of genetic material, making the combination of these two stages essential for gamete formation.