Mitosis vs Meiosis: 15 Key Differences Every Student Must Know
Tushar Parik
Author
Mitosis vs Meiosis: 15 Key Differences Every Student Must Know
This comprehensive guide from Bright Tutorials covers everything you need to know — with clear explanations, exam tips, and key points for board exam preparation.
In This Article
What is Mitosis?
- Occurs in somatic (body) cells for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction
- Produces 2 identical daughter cells with same chromosome number (2n → 2n)
- One division: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase + cytokinesis
- No crossing over occurs, daughter cells are genetic clones
What is Meiosis?
- Occurs in reproductive cells (germ cells) to form gametes
- Produces 4 daughter cells with half the chromosome number (2n → n)
- Two divisions: Meiosis I (reductional) and Meiosis II (equational)
- Crossing over in Prophase I creates genetic variation
Key Differences Table
- Location: Mitosis in somatic cells, Meiosis in gonads (ovaries/testes)
- Daughter cells: Mitosis = 2 (2n), Meiosis = 4 (n)
- Genetic makeup: Mitosis = identical to parent, Meiosis = different from parent
- Crossing over: Mitosis = No, Meiosis = Yes (Prophase I)
- Significance: Mitosis = growth/repair, Meiosis = gamete formation + genetic diversity
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