What are the differences between mitosis and meiosis?

Mitosis and meiosis are both types of cell division, but the processes differ in several ways. Mitosis is the process by which a single cell divides into two identical daughter cells, each with a complete set of chromosomes. Meiosis, on the other hand, is the process by which germ cells divide to form haploid gametes, each with half the number of chromosomes found in the original cell.

One of the key differences between these two processes is the number of cell divisions that take place. In mitosis, there is only one division, whereas meiosis involves two rounds of cell division. Another difference is the way in which chromosomes are arranged during division. In mitosis, the chromosomes line up at the center of the cell before being separated, while in meiosis, they form pairs before separating.

Other differences include the way in which genetic material is exchanged between homologous chromosomes, as well as the timing of DNA replication. Mitosis occurs in both somatic and germ cells, while meiosis is exclusive to germ cells.

In summary, mitosis results in the production of two identical diploid daughter cells, while meiosis leads to the formation of four non-identical haploid daughter cells. Both processes are essential for growth, development, and reproduction in living organisms.