What initiates the passage of half of a parent's DNA to offspring?

The passage of half of a parent's DNA to offspring is initiated during the process of meiOSis, a specialized form of cell division that occurs in germ cells. During meiOSis, homologous chromosomes are separated and recombined, resulting in gametes (sperm or eggs) that contain half the genetic material of the parent. When fertilization occurs, a sperm and an egg combine, restoring the full set of chromosomes in the offspring and establishing their unique genetic identity.