What are the differences between mitosis and meiosis?

Mitosis and meiosis refer to the way cells reproduce. 
Mitosis sees the cell divide in two, forming two genetically identical diploid cells. The reproduction of cells means mitosis is used by the body for growth and repair. A good way to remember how many cells mitosis produces is the 'to' part in the middle - miTWOsis. 
Meiosis produces four haploid cells, genetically different from each other and the parent cell. This occurs over two rounds of division. The random assortment of chromosomes through the crossing of DNA during the division produces a diverse genetic diversity within these cells - which become gametes for sexual reproduction. 

CW
Answered by Chris W. Biology tutor

23585 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the function of the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas?


Explain the difference between osmosis and diffusion.


What is eutrophication? Explain how this process can cause harm to the environment, particularly when farmers apply fertiliser to their land.


Describe how living things are involved in the constant cycling of carbon.


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