What process allows homologous chromosomes to exchange information?

The process that allows homologous chromosomes to exchange information is known as crossing over. This occurs during prophase I of meiosis, where homologous chromosomes pair up and form structures called tetrads. As they align, sections of chromatids can break and reattach to the corresponding section of the other homologous chromosome, leading to the exchange of genetic material. This results in new combinations of genes, which contributes to genetic diversity in the offspring. Crossing over is a crucial mechanism for increasing genetic variation and plays a significant role in evolution and adaptation of species.

The other processes mentioned do not involve the exchange of genetic information between chromosomes. Mutual replication refers to the copying of DNA strands, cell differentiation is the process by which cells become specialized for specific functions, and gene transformation involves the introduction of foreign DNA into an organism's genome, which does not describe the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes.