Final answer:
Mitosis and meiosis are both cell division processes, but mitosis results in two genetically identical diploid cells, while meiosis produces four genetically distinct haploid cells important for sexual reproduction.
Step-by-step explanation:
Differences Between Mitosis and Meiosis
Both mitosis and meiosis are processes of cell division that start with one round of DNA replication. However, the key differences between them are significant and have distinct outcomes for the organism. Mitosis is a process of cell division that results in two diploid daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell. It is mainly involved in growth, maintenance, and asexual reproduction. In contrast, meiosis includes two nuclear divisions resulting in four haploid daughter cells, which are genetically distinct from one another and from the parent cell. This is crucial in sexual reproduction to produce gametes, such as sperm and eggs.
The main differences between these two processes occur in meiosis I when homologous chromosomes pair up, exchange genetic material through crossing over, and then segregate into different cells. This recombination introduces genetic diversity. In metaphase of meiosis I, tetrads form and kinetochore fibers attach to each homologous chromosome pair, a mechanism that does not occur in mitosis. Conversely, mitosis involves the even distribution of sister chromatids to each daughter cell, ensuring they are genetically identical.