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

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

Answer: (A)

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. 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, and is crucial 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.
3. Consider the chromosome number: In mitosis, the chromosome number remains the same as the parent cell, while in meiosis, the chromosome number is halved, which is essential for maintaining the species' chromosome number across generations.
4. Determine the type of cells involved: Mitosis occurs in somatic (body) cells for growth and repair, whereas meiosis occurs in germ cells (reproductive cells) to produce gametes (sperm and eggs).
5. Evaluate genetic diversity: Mitosis produces genetically identical cells, while meiosis increases genetic diversity through processes such as crossing over and independent assortment during meiosis I.