Mitosis and meiosis are two types of cell division that play crucial roles in the growth and reproduction of living organisms. While both processes involve the division of a single cell into two or more daughter cells, there are several key differences between mitosis and meiosis that set them apart. Mitosis is primarily responsible for the growth and repair of tissues, while meiosis is essential for sexual reproduction and the creation of genetic diversity.
Difference between Mitosis and Meiosis
Today, we will compare and contrast these two processes in detail, highlighting the key differences between mitosis and meiosis in a clear and concise table format.
| Property | Mitosis | Meiosis |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Asexual reproduction and tissue growth | Sexual reproduction and genetic diversity |
| Number of Daughter Cells | 2 | 4 |
| Chromosome Number | Same as Parent Cell | Halved |
| Chromosome Shape | Identical | Different |
| Chromosome Alignment | Metaphase Plate | Tetrad |
| Nuclear Envelope | Present in both Anaphase and Telophase | Breaks down only in Prophase I |
| Chromosome Movement | Directly to opposite poles | Indirectly to opposite poles through spindle fibers |
| Cytokinesis | Similar in both cells | Different in each cell |
| Number of Chromosome Sets | 1 | 2 |
| Crossing Over | No | Yes |
| Chromosome Reduction | No | Yes |
| Resultant Cells | Identical | Non-Identical |
| DNA Replication | No | Yes |
| Genetic Variation | No | Yes |
| Chromosome Separation | Equational | Reductional |
| Spindle Formation | Interpolar | Centrosomal |
| Number of Meiotic Divisions | 1 | 2 |
| Chromosome Number in Gametes | Same as Parent Cell | Halved |
| Mitotic Index | High | Low |
| Daughter Cell Specialization | No | Yes |
| Time | Rapid | Prolonged |
| Examples | Germ Cells, Blood Cells, Skin Cells | Germ Cells, Spore Formation in Plants, Fungi |