Which of the following describes how mitosis differs from meiosis?

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

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 identical daughter cells, maintaining the chromosome number of the parent cell. Meiosis, on the other hand, is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four genetically diverse daughter cells.
2. Identify the number of cell divisions: Mitosis involves a single round of cell division, whereas meiosis involves two rounds of cell division, known as meiosis I and meiosis II.
3. Consider the type of cells involved: Mitosis occurs in somatic cells, which are all the cells in the body except for gametes. Meiosis occurs in gametes, which are the reproductive cells (sperm and eggs).
4. Examine the genetic outcome: Mitosis produces two daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell. Meiosis results in four daughter cells that are genetically diverse due to processes like crossing over and independent assortment.
5. Clarify the chromosome number change: Mitosis maintains the chromosome number of the parent cell, while meiosis reduces the chromosome number by half, which is crucial for sexual reproduction.