What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis?

Mitosis and meiosis are both forms of cell division, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics. **Mitosis:** - **Purpose**: Growth, repair, and asexual reproduction - **Number of divisions**: One division cycle - **Daughter cells**: Two identical diploid cells (2n) - **Chromosome number**: Maintained (same as parent) - **Genetic variation**: No genetic variation - cells are clones - **Where it occurs**: Somatic (body) cells - **Crossing over**: Does not occur **Meiosis:** - **Purpose**: Sexual reproduction - produces gametes (sex cells) - **Number of divisions**: Two division cycles (Meiosis I and II) - **Daughter cells**: Four non-identical haploid cells (n) - **Chromosome number**: Halved (half of parent) - **Genetic variation**: High genetic variation due to crossing over and independent assortment - **Where it occurs**: Germ cells (reproductive cells) - **Crossing over**: Occurs during Prophase I **Key Differences:** 1. Mitosis produces genetically identical cells, while meiosis creates genetic diversity 2. Mitosis maintains chromosome number; meiosis reduces it by half 3. Mitosis produces 2 cells; meiosis produces 4 cells 4. Mitosis is for growth and repair; meiosis is for reproduction This is why you inherit traits from both parents - meiosis ensures genetic diversity in offspring!