Meiosis vs Mitosis
Biology: AQA A Level, topic 4.3.4
Meiosis vs Mitosis
Meiosis and mitosis are two important processes involved in cell division. The differences between meiosis and mitosis are:
Number of cells
- Meiosis produces four cells.
- Mitosis produces two cells.
Number of chromosomes
- Meiosis produces haploid cells. The number of chromosomes in the daughter cells is half the number in the parent cells.
- E.g. Meiosis in humans produces cells with 23 chromosomes.
- Mitosis produces diploid cells. The number of chromosomes in the daughter cells is the same as the parent cells.
- E.g. Mitosis in humans produces cells with 46 chromosomes.
Genetic variation
- Meiosis produces genetically different daughter cells.
- Mitosis produces genetically identical daughter cells.
Products
- Meiosis only produces gametes (sex cells).
- Mitosis allows the replication of every body cell.
Test yourself on Meiosis vs Mitosis
Which of the following statements about meiosis and mitosis are true?
What would be the number of chromosomes produced in the daughter cells in meiosis if the parent cells have 24 chromosomes?