Final answer:
In meiosis, human cells can create over 8 million unique gamete combinations due to independent assortment. With 23 chromosome pairs, this is calculated using the formula 2^23. Along with fertilization, this leads to a potential of over 64 trillion combinations, adding to vast genetic diversity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Independent Assortment in Meiosis
During meiosis, particularly in metaphase I, human cells demonstrate a vital genetic phenomenon known as independent assortment. This process ensures that each gamete (sperm or egg) receives a random mix of the 23 chromosome pairs that humans have. To calculate the number of genetically-distinct gamete combinations, we apply the formula 2n, where n is the number of chromosome pairs. For humans, with 23 pairs of chromosomes, this results in 223 or over 8 million unique combinations, not including additional variability introduced by crossing-over.
In terms of genetic diversity, this randomness in chromosome segregation during meiosis is compounded when considering sexual reproduction. A sperm cell, with its own set of over 8 million possible combinations, fertilizes an egg, which also brings an equivalent number of possibilities. Therefore, the offspring inherits one of over 64 trillion possible chromosome combinations, which contributes to the extensive genetic variation observed within the human population.