Which of the following correctly describes a key difference between mitosis and meiosis?

• A. Mitosis occurs only in reproductive cells, while meiosis occurs in all body cells.
• B. Mitosis results in two identical daughter cells, while meiosis results in four genetically diverse daughter cells.
• C. Mitosis reduces the chromosome number by half, while meiosis maintains the chromosome number.
• D. Mitosis involves two rounds of cell division, while meiosis involves only one.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of mitosis and meiosis: Mitosis is a process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells, maintaining the same chromosome number as the parent cell. It is used for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction. Meiosis, on the other hand, is a specialized form of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four genetically diverse daughter cells. It is essential for sexual reproduction.
2. Identify the number of cell divisions: Mitosis involves a single round of cell division, whereas meiosis consists of two rounds of cell division, known as meiosis I and meiosis II. This is a key difference in the processes.
3. Consider the chromosome number: In mitosis, the chromosome number remains the same as the parent cell, ensuring genetic consistency. In meiosis, the chromosome number is halved, which is crucial for maintaining the species' chromosome number across generations when gametes fuse during fertilization.
4. Examine the genetic diversity: Mitosis produces two identical daughter cells, which are clones of the parent cell. Meiosis, however, results in four genetically diverse daughter cells due to processes like crossing over and independent assortment during meiosis I.
5. Clarify the types of cells involved: Mitosis occurs in somatic (body) cells for growth and repair, while meiosis occurs in germ cells to produce gametes (sperm and eggs) for sexual reproduction.