Mitosis vs meiosis
Mitosis makes two identical body cells; meiosis makes four different sex cells.
The common mistake
Saying meiosis produces identical cells, or that mitosis halves the chromosome number.
Instead: Mitosis: 1 division, 2 identical diploid cells, for growth and repair. Meiosis: 2 divisions, 4 genetically different haploid gametes.
Worked example with Guide me
A human body cell has 46 chromosomes. How many are in a sperm cell?
- Sugar · Is a sperm cell made by mitosis or meiosis?Student · Meiosis.
- Sugar · What does meiosis do to the chromosome number?Student · Halves it.
Answer: 23
Try 3 practice questions
1. How many cells does mitosis produce?
Show answer
2 identical cells
2. Which process creates genetic variety?
Show answer
Meiosis (crossing over and independent assortment)
3. A skin cell dividing to heal a cut uses…?
Show answer
Mitosis
Quick answers
- What is the most common mistake with mitosis vs meiosis?
- Saying meiosis produces identical cells, or that mitosis halves the chromosome number.
- How do I get mitosis vs meiosis right?
- Mitosis: 1 division, 2 identical diploid cells, for growth and repair. Meiosis: 2 divisions, 4 genetically different haploid gametes.
- Can you show a worked example?
- A human body cell has 46 chromosomes. How many are in a sperm cell? 23
Related concepts
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