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Mitosis is the process cells use to divide and create two identical daughter cells. It happens in body (somatic) cells and is important for growth, repair, and replacement. Each new cell gets a full set of DNA — exactly like the parent cell.

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Green, M. (n.d.). Topic 1.6: Cell division. Amazing World of Science with Mr. Green. Retrieved from https://www.mrgscience.com/topic-16-cell-division.html

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DNA replicates so the cell has two copies of each chromosome.

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Chromosomes condense and become visible. The nuclear membrane starts to break down.

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Chromosomes line up in the center of the cell.

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Sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite sides

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New nuclear membranes form around each set of chromosomes.

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The cell splits into two identical daughter cells

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Key Characteristics:

Produces 2 diploid cells (2n)

Cells are genetically identical

No crossing over or genetic variation

Happens in body cells (not for reproduction)

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Meiosis is the process used to make gametes (sperm and eggs). It results in four daughter cells that have half the DNA of the parent. Each cell is genetically unique, which helps increase variation in offspring.

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Homologous chromosomes pair up and cross over, swapping sections of DNA

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Chromosome pairs line up in the middle randomly (independent assortment)

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Hanneman, M. (2021). Meiosis: Anaphase I. Plant and Soil Sciences eLibrary. https://passel2.unl.edu/view/lesson/f57a1a8ce6f5/11

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Homologous chromosomes separate

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Two haploid cells form

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Meiosis II – Like mitosis, but no DNA replication first.

Prophase II

Metaphase II

Anaphase II

Telophase II + Cytokinesis – Four genetically different haploid cells result.

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Key Characteristics:

Produces 4 haploid cells (n)

Cells are genetically different

Crossing over = new combinations of genes

Follows Mendel’s law of independent assortment: genes on different chromosomes separate independently when forming gametes.