What is the term for the process of cell division that produces reproductive cells?

The correct term for the process of cell division that produces reproductive cells is meiosis. This specialized form of cell division is crucial for sexual reproduction, as it results in gametes—sperm and eggs in animals. During meiosis, the chromosome number is halved from diploid (two sets of chromosomes) to haploid (one set of chromosomes), ensuring that when fertilization occurs, the resulting offspring have the correct diploid number.

Meiosis consists of two sequential divisions, meiosis I and meiosis II, each with distinct phases, leading to genetic variation through processes such as crossing over and independent assortment. This genetic diversity is essential for evolution and adaptation in populations.

In contrast, mitosis is the process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells, primarily involved in growth, tissue repair, and asexual reproduction. Binary fission is a form of asexual reproduction seen in prokaryotes, such as bacteria, where a single cell divides into two identical cells. The term "cell division" is more general and does not specify the type of division or its purpose regarding reproduction. Therefore, meiosis specifically relates to the production of reproductive cells, distinguishing it from these other processes.