Final answer:
Mitosis produces two genetically identical diploid daughter cells for growth and repair, while meiosis produces four genetically distinct haploid gametes for reproduction.
Step-by-step explanation:
Difference Between Cells Produced by Mitosis and Meiosis
The two main types of cell division in eukaryotic cells are mitosis and meiosis. Mitosis is a process of cell division that results in two daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell. These cells are diploid, meaning they have two sets of chromosomes, and are involved in growth, repair, and asexual reproduction.
In contrast, meiosis is a process that results in four daughter cells, each with half the number of chromosomes of the parent cell, thus they are haploid. These gametes are not genetically identical due to events like crossing over that increase genetic diversity. Meiosis produces cells that are solely involved in sexual reproduction.
Therefore, cells from mitosis are used in body growth and tissue repair, while those from meiosis become sperm or eggs used in reproductive processes to create a new organism with a unique combination of genetic material.