What is the significance of the crossing over that occurs between homologous chromosomes during meiosis?

A. It causes chromosomes to condense.

B. It maintains the diploid number of the species.

C. It reduces chromosomes from 2n to n.

D. It results in genetic variation due to new gene combinations.

Option D. It results in genetic variation due to new gene combinations.

Explanation:

Crossing over that occurs between homologous chromosomes during meiosis is responsible for the genetic variation due to new gene combinations. Crossing over is a process in which parts of chromosomes are exchanged between two different chromatids when gametes are produced.