Which of the following is not a true difference between mitosis and meiosis?

• A. Mitosis reduces the chromosome number by half, while meiosis maintains the chromosome number.
• B. Mitosis involves one cell division, whereas meiosis involves two cell divisions.
• C. Mitosis results in two identical daughter cells, while meiosis results in four genetically diverse daughter cells.
• D. Mitosis occurs in somatic cells, while meiosis occurs in germ cells.

Answer: (A)

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 genetically diverse daughter cells, and is essential for sexual reproduction.
2. Analyze the statement: 'Mitosis reduces the chromosome number by half, while meiosis maintains the chromosome number.' This statement is incorrect because it describes the opposite of what actually happens. Mitosis maintains the chromosome number, while meiosis reduces it by half.
3. Consider the statement: 'Mitosis involves one cell division, whereas meiosis involves two cell divisions.' This is a true difference. Mitosis consists of a single division cycle, while meiosis includes two successive division cycles (meiosis I and meiosis II).
4. Evaluate the statement: 'Mitosis results in two identical daughter cells, while meiosis results in four genetically diverse daughter cells.' This is also a true difference. Mitosis produces two genetically identical cells, whereas meiosis results in four genetically varied cells due to crossing over and independent assortment.
5. Review the statement: 'Mitosis occurs in somatic cells, while meiosis occurs in germ cells.' This is a true difference. Mitosis occurs in somatic (body) cells for growth and repair, while meiosis occurs in germ cells to produce gametes for reproduction.