Final answer:
Meiosis produces genetically distinct haploid daughter cells through two rounds of cell division, while mitosis produces genetically identical diploid daughter cells through one round of division.
Step-by-step explanation:
Meiosis is a type of cell division that occurs in reproductive cells to produce gametes (sperm and eggs). It involves two rounds of nuclear division and results in the formation of four genetically distinct haploid daughter cells.
In contrast, mitosis is a type of cell division that occurs in somatic (body) cells and produces two genetically identical diploid daughter cells. It involves only one round of nuclear division.
Overall, the key differences between meiosis and mitosis lie in the number of daughter cells produced, their ploidy level, and genetic variability.