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.
