Which process results in genetically diverse daughter cells?

Meiosis is the process that results in genetically diverse daughter cells due to its unique method of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half and promotes genetic variation. During meiosis, specifically in the first division (meiosis I), homologous chromosomes pair up and can exchange genetic material through a process called crossing over. This leads to new combinations of alleles, contributing to the genetic diversity of gametes.

Additionally, meiosis involves independent assortment of chromosomes, meaning the way in which chromosomes are distributed to the daughter cells is random and further increases variation among the resulting gametes. When fertilization occurs, these genetically distinct gametes combine to form a zygote, resulting in offspring that are genetically unique from both parents.

Other processes listed, such as binary fission, mitosis, and cloning, typically produce daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell, which does not contribute to genetic diversity.