Final answer:
Microsporocytes undergo meiosis to form haploid microspores, which can then develop into gametophytes for sexual reproduction.
Step-by-step explanation:
In sexual reproduction among plants and certain algae and fungi, microsporocytes undergo a specific type of cell division that results in the formation of spores. The correct answer to the student's question, "Microsporocytes divide by ______, forming ______." is c. meiosis; haploid microspores. Microsporocytes are diploid cells, and to create spores that are genetically diverse and suitable for reproduction, they undergo meiosis, during which the chromosome number is halved. This process leads to the formation of haploid microspores, which can then develop into gametophytes capable of producing gametes for fertilization.