Meiosis 1 is the first stage of meiosis, a process of cell division that results in the formation of gametes, or reproductive cells. During meiosis 1, the genetic material of a cell is reduced by half, with each set of chromosomes being divided into two daughter cells. The daughter cells then divide again in meiosis 2 to form four haploid cells, each with a single set of chromosomes.
Meiosis 2 is the second stage of meiosis, where the daughter cells created in meiosis 1 divide again. This results in four haploid cells, containing half the genetic material of the original cell. In meiosis 2, the chromosomes of each daughter cell cross over and recombine, creating new combinations of genetic material. This process increases genetic diversity in the resulting gametes, which can increase the chances of successful reproduction.