Cell division. How and why does it happen? Cells can make exact copies through a process called mitosis. The parent cell undergoes DNA replication and makes a copy; same DNA, same chromosome number. Some simple organisms use mitosis as a method of asexual
reproduction, but there is a disadvantage: no genetic variation. When organisms began undergoing sexual reproduction, there needed to
be a way for parent cells to combine DNA in their offspring, hence facilitating genetic variation. Meiosis. In this process, DNA replication
still takes place, but instead of two identical cells with the same DNA and chromosome number, four daughter cells are produced with half
the chromosome number. We call these cells gametes. When gametes combine via fertilization, there is a new genetic combination and
the chromosome number is restored.
Compare the two processes: mitosis and meiosis. Can you identify the the true statements about the two?
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Meiosis results in four haploid daughter cells.
Mitosis results in four diploid daughter cells.
In both processes, DNA replication must occur.
During meiosis the 2N mother cells produces N daughter cells
Mitosis is responsible for genetic continuity in higher organisms it is essential for growth and repair.
In plants, egg and sperm are produced via mitosis