What is the definition of meiosis?

Meiosis is defined as a specialized type of cell division that results in four genetically diverse haploid nuclei. The process occurs in two main stages: meiosis I and meiosis II. During meiosis I, homologous chromosomes are separated, reducing the chromosome number by half, which transforms the diploid cell into two haploid cells. In meiosis II, those haploid cells then divide again, similar to mitosis, resulting in four haploid daughter cells.

This process is crucial for sexual reproduction, as it ensures that gametes (sperm and eggs) contain half the number of chromosomes of the original diploid cell. This reduction in chromosome number is vital for maintaining the species' chromosome count during fertilization, as the fusion of two haploid gametes restores the diploid state in the zygote.

Thus, the correct answer accurately captures the essence of meiosis, outlining both the two divisions and the ultimate result of four haploid cells. This is contrasted with other options, which do not accurately represent the nature or outcome of meiosis.