What is the main purpose of Meiosis TWO?

Meiosis II specifically serves the purpose of separating sister chromatids. This phase occurs after Meiosis I, where homologous chromosomes have already been separated into different cells. In Meiosis II, each of the two cells produced in Meiosis I undergoes a division process similar to mitosis, whereby the sister chromatids of each chromosome are pulled apart into individual chromosomes and distributed into four haploid cells. This separation ensures that each gamete receives only one copy of each chromosome, maintaining the correct number of chromosomes for future fertilization.

While the other options relate to aspects of meiosis or reproduction, they do not accurately capture the essence of what occurs during Meiosis II. For example, the separation of homologous chromosomes is a key process that occurs during Meiosis I. Genetic variation, although a significant outcome of meiosis as a whole, is not a direct purpose of Meiosis II itself; rather, it is primarily established through processes such as crossing over during Meiosis I. Fertilization refers to the union of gametes, which is a separate process that occurs after meiosis is complete. Thus, identifying the primary role of separating sister chromatids in Meiosis II clarifies its significance in the overall meiotic process.