Which statement about mitosis and meiosis is correct?

• A. Both mitosis and meiosis result in the production of four identical daughter cells.
• B. Mitosis results in two identical daughter cells, while meiosis results in four genetically diverse daughter cells.
• C. Meiosis occurs in somatic cells, while mitosis occurs in gametes.
• D. Mitosis involves two rounds of cell division, while meiosis involves only one.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic purpose of mitosis and meiosis: Mitosis is a process of cell division that results in two identical daughter cells, primarily for growth and repair in somatic cells. Meiosis, on the other hand, is a specialized form of cell division that produces four genetically diverse daughter cells, which are gametes (sperm and eggs) in sexually reproducing organisms.
2. Identify the number of cell divisions: Mitosis involves a single round of cell division, resulting in two daughter cells. Meiosis consists of two rounds of cell division, known as meiosis I and meiosis II, leading to four daughter cells.
3. Consider the genetic outcome: Mitosis produces daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell, maintaining the same chromosome number. Meiosis results in daughter cells with half the chromosome number of the parent cell, introducing genetic diversity through processes like crossing over and independent assortment.
4. Clarify where each process occurs: Mitosis occurs in somatic cells, which are all the body cells except for the reproductive cells. Meiosis occurs in the reproductive organs to produce gametes.
5. Evaluate the statements given in the problem: Compare each statement with the information about mitosis and meiosis. The correct statement is that mitosis results in two identical daughter cells, while meiosis results in four genetically diverse daughter cells.