Mitosis Vs Meiosis

DNA replication:

• Mitosis: Occurs during interphase before mitosis begins.
• Meiosis: Occurs during interphase before meiosis begins.

Number of divisions:

• Mitosis: One
• Meiosis: Two

Synapsis of homologous chromosomes:

• Mitosis: Does not occur
• Meiosis: Occurs along with crossing over between non-sister chromatids in Prophase 1

Number of daughter cells and genetic composition:

• Mitosis: Two diploid (2n) daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell.
• Meiosis: Four haploid (n) daughter cells, each containing half as many chromosomes as parent cell. Daughter cells are genetically different from the parent cell and each other.

Role in the animal body:

• Mitosis: Produces cells for growth and repair.
• Meiosis: Produces gametes and assures genetic diversity in sexual reproduction.