What's the difference between cell division and cell differentiation?

Cell differentiation allows a cell to specialize to achieve a specific function Multicellular organisms (eg: humans) have different types of cells which have different functions. For example: a muscle cell needs to contract, while a sperm cell needs to swim to the egg. Cell differentiation is the process by which cells specialize to achieve their required functions. In order for a cell to differentiate, it will express specific genes. Once a cell has differentiated, it loses its ability to undergo mitosis (see below). Cell division involves splitting of a cell  Mitosis is a form of cell division : this is the process by which cells split to form new cells. During the life of any living organism, there is always a need to form new cells, eg: when you scrape your skin, some of the cells that have died are replaced by mitosis. Importantly, mitosis produces cells that are identical to each other (clones). 

N.B: issues with paragraph function and image upload

SL
Answered by Svet L. Biology tutor

42554 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe the steps in a reflex arc.


What is eutrophication?


Plants require nitrates for growth. To maximise crop yield, farmers utilise techniques such as crop rotation and ploughing of fields prior to planting their seedlings. Explain how the two techniques mentioned improve plant yield:


Define the different types of respiration.


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences