All of the following refer to mitosis, except:

• A. Reduces chromosome number by half
• B. Produces two genetically identical daughter cells
• C. Occurs in somatic cells
• D. Involves phases such as prophase and metaphase

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process of mitosis: Mitosis is a type of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells, each with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell. It occurs in somatic (non-reproductive) cells and involves distinct phases such as prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
2. Analyze the first option: 'Reduces chromosome number by half.' This statement refers to meiosis, not mitosis. Meiosis is a specialized type of cell division that occurs in germ cells and reduces the chromosome number by half to produce haploid gametes.
3. Analyze the second option: 'Produces two genetically identical daughter cells.' This is a correct description of mitosis, as the daughter cells are clones of the parent cell.
4. Analyze the third option: 'Occurs in somatic cells.' This is also correct, as mitosis takes place in somatic cells for growth, repair, and maintenance.
5. Analyze the fourth option: 'Involves phases such as prophase and metaphase.' This is accurate, as these are key stages of mitosis. Therefore, the only option that does not refer to mitosis is the first one, which describes meiosis.