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.
⚖️ 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.
Practice questions for Mitosis and the Cell Cycle
What is mitosis?
Describe what happens during interphase to prepare a cell for mitosis.
Quick recall flashcards
Define mitosis
Mitosis is the process of nuclear division that produces two genetically identical diploid cells from one diploid cell. It is used for growth and repair in multicellular organisms.
Give three reasons why cells divide
1. Growth - increasing cell numbers for organism development
2. Repair - replacing damaged or dead cells
3. Asexual reproduction - creating identical offspring