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Mitosis: Somatic Cell Division

In mitosis, a single parent cell undergoes one division to produce two genetically identical daughter cells. The cell first duplicates its DNA, yielding 46 chromosomes in each daughter in humans. This process occurs throughout the body, enabling growth, tissue repair, and asexual reproduction in many organisms.

Meiosis: Gamete Formation

Meiosis is a specialized division that occurs only in germ cells, producing gametes (sperm and egg). The parent cell undergoes two consecutive divisions, yielding four haploid cells, each carrying 23 chromosomes in humans. When fertilization occurs, the zygote restores the diploid chromosome number (46).

Shared Mechanisms

Both mitosis and meiosis share essential steps: DNA replication, chromosome alignment, segregation, and cytokinesis. In meiosis, additional events—cross‑over during prophase I and two successive divisions—introduce genetic variation.

Key Differences

• Number of divisions: Mitosis has one division; meiosis has two.
• Genetic outcome: Mitosis produces diploid, identical cells; meiosis produces haploid, genetically diverse gametes.
• Location: Mitosis occurs in somatic tissues; meiosis is confined to the reproductive organs.
• Purpose: Growth and maintenance versus sexual reproduction.