What is the difference between meiosis and mitosis?

Function: Mitosis is used in the replication of body cells. It occurs every day to replace cells that have died or have been damaged, for growth and also in asexual reproduction. Meiosis is used to produce gametes, which are the same as sex cells; male sperm cells and female egg cells. Number of cells produced: In mitosis, 2 cells are produced from one cell. In meiosis, 4 cells are produced from one cell. Haploid/ diploid cells: Mitosis produces diploid cells; each has 46 chromosomes in it. Meiosis produces haploid cells; each has a 23 choromosomes in it. Identical/ non-identical: Mitosis produces genetically identical cells to replace cells that have been lost in the body, for growth or asexual reproduction and so the cells produced need to be the same. Meiosis produces four non-identical cells.

AA
Answered by Amy A. Biology tutor

3130 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain the key differences between plant and animal cells.


Compare anaerobic respiration in a yeast cell with aerobic respiration in a muscle cell (3 marks)


Describe the similarities and differences between the processes of osmosis and diffusion


Define the different types of reproduction and list the advantages of each type of reproduction.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning