Cell BiologyComparison
Mitosis vs Meiosis — Key Differences
Part of Mitosis and the Cell Cycle — GCSE Biology
This comparison covers Mitosis vs Meiosis — Key Differences within Mitosis and the Cell Cycle for GCSE Biology. Cell division by mitosis, cell cycle phases, chromosome behavior, cytokinesis differences, stem cells, cancer, and practical investigations It is section 11 of 19 in this topic. Use this comparison to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 11 of 19
Practice
18 questions
Recall
18 flashcards
⚖️ Mitosis vs Meiosis — Key Differences
| Feature | Mitosis | Meiosis |
|---|---|---|
| Number of divisions | One division | Two divisions |
| Number of daughter cells produced | 2 cells | 4 cells |
| Genetic variation | Genetically identical to parent | Genetically different from parent and each other |
| Where it occurs | Body (somatic) cells throughout the organism | Reproductive organs (testes and ovaries) |
| Chromosome number | Diploid (2n) → Diploid (2n) — unchanged | Diploid (2n) → Haploid (n) — halved |
| Purpose | Growth, repair, asexual reproduction | Producing sex cells (gametes) for sexual reproduction |
Exam tip: If a question asks about division that produces gametes (sperm, eggs) — that is meiosis, not mitosis.