Reduction division — producing haploid gametes with genetic variation
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Meiosis I separates homologous pairs (reduction division): Prophase I (crossing over), Metaphase I (alignment), Anaphase I (homologs separate), Telophase I (2 cells). Meiosis II separates sister chromatids: Prophase II → Metaphase II → Anaphase II → Telophase II, yielding 4 haploid cells. Crossing over in Prophase I generates genetic diversity.