Correct Option
The correct option isMeiosis produces cells with half the number of chromosomes, while mitosis maintains the chromosome number.
Explanation
Cell division in eukaryotic organisms occurs primarily through two distinct processes: Mitosis and Meiosis. Mitosis is an equational division where the chromosome number remains constant, serving functions like growth and tissue repair. Meiosis is a reductional division that halves the chromosome number, essential for sexual reproduction and gamete formation.
Option Analysis
- Meiosis involves a single division, while mitosis involves two consecutive divisions. is Incorrect. Mitosis involves a single cycle of nuclear and cell division. In contrast, Meiosis involves two consecutive cycles of nuclear and cell division, known as Meiosis I and Meiosis II, but only a single cycle of DNA replication.
- Meiosis produces two identical daughter cells, while mitosis produces four different cells. is Incorrect. Mitosis produces two daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell. Meiosis produces four daughter cells that are genetically distinct from each other and the parent cell due to crossing over and independent assortment.
- Meiosis produces cells with half the number of chromosomes, while mitosis maintains the chromosome number. is Correct. Mitosis maintains the ploidy level of the parent cell (e.g., a diploid cell produces diploid daughter cells). Meiosis reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in haploid daughter cells from a diploid parent cell. This reduction is crucial to restore the specific chromosome number of the species after fertilization.
- Meiosis occurs in somatic cells for growth, while mitosis occurs in reproductive cells. is Incorrect. Mitosis occurs in somatic (body) cells and is responsible for growth, development, and repair. Meiosis occurs exclusively in germ cells (reproductive cells) during the formation of gametes (sperms and ova).
Key Takeaway: The fundamental distinction lies in the outcome: Mitosis results in two genetically identical diploid cells for growth, whereas Meiosis results in four genetically unique haploid cells for sexual reproduction.