What type of cellular division results in four genetically unique gametes?

Meiotic division is the process that results in four genetically unique gametes. This type of cell division occurs in the formation of sperm and eggs, where a single diploid cell undergoes two rounds of division—meiosis I and meiosis II—ultimately leading to the creation of four haploid cells.

During meiosis I, homologous chromosomes are separated, which introduces genetic diversity through processes such as independent assortment and crossing over. Independent assortment allows for the random distribution of maternal and paternal chromosomes into gametes, while crossing over enables the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes, further enhancing variability.

In contrast, mitotic division produces two genetically identical daughter cells and is primarily used for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction. Binary fission is a method of asexual reproduction found in prokaryotes, resulting in two identical daughter cells. Clonal division, which often refers to asexual reproduction in some organisms, also produces genetically identical cells. Therefore, meiotic division is the unique mechanism that leads to the production of genetically diverse gametes essential for sexual reproduction.