Last Updated: 7 May 2026Verified for JEE 2027
BiologyNEET
Difference Between Mitosis and Meiosis
Mitosis and meiosis are the two types of cell division. Mitosis produces identical daughter cells for growth and repair, while meiosis produces genetically diverse gametes for sexual reproduction.
Mitosis vs Meiosis — Comparison Table
| Aspect | Mitosis | Meiosis |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Growth and repair | Gamete formation |
| Daughter cells | 2 identical cells | 4 genetically different cells |
| Chromosome number | Maintained (2n → 2n) | Halved (2n → n) |
| Divisions | One division | Two divisions (Meiosis I + II) |
| Crossing over | Rare | Occurs in Prophase I |
| Genetic variation | No variation | High variation |
| Where | Somatic cells | Reproductive cells |
| Stages | Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase | Same stages but twice (I and II) |
Key Points to Remember
Meiosis I is reductional (2n→n); Meiosis II is equational (n→n)
Crossing over in Prophase I creates genetic diversity
Mitosis maintains chromosome number; meiosis halves it
Non-disjunction in meiosis leads to chromosomal disorders (Down syndrome)
Exam Relevance
This topic falls under Cell Division in Biology for NEET. Questions on the difference between mitosis and meiosis appear frequently in competitive exams, both as direct MCQs and as part of numerical/assertion-reason problems.
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