In what way is mitosis similar to meiosis?

• A. Both processes reduce the chromosome number by half.
• B. Both processes result in the production of gametes.
• C. Both processes involve the division of a single cell into two identical daughter cells.
• D. Both processes include stages of prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic definitions: Mitosis is a type of cell division that results in two daughter cells each having the same number and kind of chromosomes as the parent nucleus, typical of ordinary tissue growth. Meiosis, on the other hand, is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating four haploid cells, each genetically distinct from the parent cell, and is involved in the production of gametes.
2. Identify the stages involved in both processes: Both mitosis and meiosis include stages known as prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. These stages are part of the cell cycle where the chromosomes are aligned, separated, and moved to opposite poles of the cell.
3. Compare the processes: While mitosis results in two identical daughter cells, meiosis results in four genetically distinct cells. However, both processes share the same sequence of stages (prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase) during their respective divisions.
4. Clarify the differences: Mitosis involves one division cycle and maintains the chromosome number, whereas meiosis involves two division cycles and reduces the chromosome number by half. Despite these differences, the similarity lies in the sequence of stages they undergo.
5. Conclude the similarity: The correct similarity between mitosis and meiosis is that both processes include the stages of prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, even though their outcomes and purposes differ.