URGENTTT Which of the following best describes how independent assortment results in inherited variations within a species and how it contributes to evolution?

A Independent assortment results from the copying of DNA during cell division and causes variations that are sometimes beneficial to a species

B Independent assortment results from the binary fission of a single cell and causes mutations that can be beneficial or harmful to a species

C Independent assortment occurs during mitosis and causes uncontrolled cell division which is harmful to a species

D Independent assortment occurs when chromosomes separate during meiosis and causes variations that can be beneficial or harmful to a species

D Independent assortment occurs when chromosomes separate during meiosis and causes variations that can be beneficial or harmful to a species

Explanation:

During meiosis, the homologous chromosomes separate and segregate independently of each other. This process is referred to as 'independent assortment'. In consequence, different gene variants or 'alleles' localized in homologous chromosomes segregate independently of each other during gamete formation, thereby one particular gamete has an equal probability to carry either of these segregating alleles. Independent assortment generates genetic variation in the gametes, which can be beneficial or deleterious in a given environment.

explanation:

the fossil record extends back to a dog-like ancestor some 55 million years ago, which gave rise to the first horse-like species 55 to 42 million years ago in the genus eohippus.