Describe the difference between mitosis and meiosis.

Mitosis and meiosis are distinct processes of cell division that serve different purposes in organismal biology. Mitosis is primarily responsible for the growth, repair, and asexual reproduction of somatic (body) cells. As a result, mitosis produces two genetically identical daughter cells, maintaining the same chromosome number as the parent cell—this is crucial for preserving the integrity of an organism’s genetic material throughout its life.

In contrast, meiosis is involved in the production of gametes (sperm and eggs) and introduces genetic diversity through processes such as crossing over and independent assortment. This reduction division results in four genetically diverse daughter cells, each containing half the chromosome number of the original cell. This difference is fundamental for sexual reproduction, as it ensures that when gametes fuse during fertilization, the resulting zygote has the correct diploid chromosome number.

The understanding of these cellular processes is essential for comprehending concepts related to genetics, reproduction, and cellular biology.