What role does DNA replication play in meiosis?

DNA replication is a crucial step that occurs prior to meiosis. Before a cell enters meiosis, it must duplicate its genetic material to ensure that each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes. This replication happens during the S phase of the cell cycle, which takes place right before meiosis begins.

During meiosis, the cell undergoes two rounds of division (meiosis I and meiosis II) without a subsequent round of DNA replication. As a result, the replicated chromosomes, now consisting of two sister chromatids, are divided into four genetically diverse gametes. This process is fundamental for sexual reproduction and genetic diversity in offspring. Thus, the timing of DNA replication before meiosis is essential for proper chromosome segregation and the creation of gametes with the appropriate chromosome number.