How are the processes of mitosis and meiosis similar to each other?

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

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the basic purpose of mitosis and meiosis. Mitosis is primarily for growth and repair, producing two identical daughter cells, while meiosis is for sexual reproduction, producing gametes with half the chromosome number.
2. Identify the stages common to both processes: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. These stages involve similar mechanisms of chromosome alignment and separation.
3. Clarify the difference in chromosome number reduction: Mitosis maintains the chromosome number, while meiosis reduces it by half, which is crucial for maintaining genetic stability across generations.
4. Examine the outcome of each process: Mitosis results in two identical daughter cells, whereas meiosis results in four genetically diverse gametes.
5. Understand the context of cell division: Mitosis occurs in somatic cells for growth and repair, while meiosis occurs in germ cells for reproduction.