The difference in the chromosome arrangement during meiosis in the metaphase plate can lead to greater genetic diversity in a population. Explain your answer

independent assortment  

Explanation:

The independent assortment of chromosomes refers to the process by which pairs of homologous chromosomes are randomly separated during meiosis. In metaphase I, pairs of homologous chromosomes line up along the center of the cell at the metaphase plate, and subsequently segregate at anaphase I. For example, in humans, there are 8,324,608 different gametic combinations that can result from meiosis (i.e., 23 chromosome pairs >> 2²³ = 8,324, 608 gametic combinations). In consequence, it is almost impossible that two gametes have the same combination of chromosomes after meiosis, thereby this process increases the genetic variation in the population.