Final answer:
Both mitosis and meiosis involve one round of DNA replication prior to cell division, separation of sister chromatids, and cytokinesis. Mitosis results in two identical diploid daughter cells, while meiosis produces four genetically unique haploid daughter cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mitosis and meiosis are both critical processes in eukaryotic cell division. They share several similarities, one of which is that both processes are preceded by one round of DNA replication. In both mitosis and meiosis, the chromosomes are duplicated during the S-phase of the cell cycle before the actual division process begins.
During mitosis, a single round of division produces two diploid daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell. It is a form of asexual reproduction or growth, commonly found in body cells.
In contrast, meiosis includes two rounds of nuclear division, resulting in four haploid daughter cells, each genetically distinct from the parent cell, and from each other. This process is essential for producing gametes used in sexual reproduction.
The fundamental events that occur in both mitosis and meiosis include pairing of chromosomes, followed by separation of the sister chromatids. Additionally, both processes involve the breakdown of the nuclear membrane, the formation of spindle fibers, and the subsequent division of cytoplasm (cytokinesis).