Which of the following statements correctly describes a similarity between meiosis and mitosis, and a difference between them?

• A. Both processes result in genetically identical cells, but meiosis involves two rounds of division while mitosis involves one.
• B. Both processes occur in somatic cells, but meiosis produces diploid cells while mitosis produces haploid cells.
• C. Both processes involve the formation of gametes, but mitosis includes crossing over while meiosis does not.
• D. Both processes involve cell division, but meiosis results in four genetically unique cells while mitosis results in two identical cells.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic purpose of mitosis and meiosis: Mitosis is a process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells, primarily for growth and repair in somatic cells. Meiosis, on the other hand, is a specialized form of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four genetically unique daughter cells, and is essential for sexual reproduction.
2. Identify the key similarities between mitosis and meiosis: Both processes involve the division of cells and the replication of DNA. They start with a diploid parent cell and involve stages such as prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
3. Recognize the differences in the number of divisions: Mitosis involves a single round of division, resulting in two identical daughter cells. Meiosis involves two rounds of division (meiosis I and meiosis II), leading to four genetically unique daughter cells.
4. Consider the genetic outcomes: Mitosis results in daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell, maintaining the same chromosome number. Meiosis results in daughter cells that are genetically diverse due to processes like crossing over and independent assortment, and they have half the chromosome number of the parent cell.
5. Evaluate the context of cell types and functions: Mitosis occurs in somatic cells for growth and repair, while meiosis occurs in germ cells to produce gametes (sperm and eggs) for reproduction. This distinction is crucial for understanding the roles of these processes in biology.