Cell division is how your body grows, repairs itself, and... Show more
Biology
English Literature
SociologySign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
156
•
22 Dec 2025
•
Understanding Cell Division: Mitosis and Meiosis Explained
Gabriela
@gabriela.my.school.journey16
1 / 3
Chromosomes and Cell Division Basics
Think of chromosomes as tightly packed instruction manuals for your body - they're coiled strands of DNA found in every cell's nucleus. Each chromosome carries hundreds of genes, which are like individual recipes telling your cells how to make different proteins.
Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes (46 total), whilst other species have completely different numbers. These chromosomes work in pairs because you inherit one set from each parent, which is why you might have your mum's eyes but your dad's nose.
Cell division happens constantly in your body for two main reasons: growth and repair. When you were developing from a tiny embryo, cell division helped you grow bigger. Now it's busy replacing the millions of skin cells you shed daily and creating new blood cells.
Quick Fact: Your skin completely replaces itself every 2-4 weeks through cell division!
You'll find mitosis happening right now in your skin, blood, and digestive system. In plants, it's particularly active at root and shoot tips, which is why plants can keep growing throughout their lives.
Mitosis: Making Identical Copies
Mitosis is like a photocopier for cells - it creates two identical copies from one original cell. This process is crucial for growth and replacing worn-out cells in your body.
The process starts when chromosomes double themselves through DNA replication. At the same time, important cell parts like ribosomes and mitochondria increase in number. Think of this as getting ready to split everything equally between two new cells.
During the actual division, the cell carefully pulls one copy of each chromosome to opposite ends. The cytoplasm and cell membrane then split down the middle, creating two completely separate cells. Both daughter cells end up genetically identical to the original parent cell.
Remember: Mitosis always produces 2 identical cells with the same chromosome number as the parent.
This process ensures that every new cell in your body has exactly the same genetic information, which is why your liver cells and muscle cells both contain your complete DNA blueprint.
Meiosis: Creating Genetic Variety
Meiosis is completely different from mitosis - instead of making identical copies, it creates four genetically unique cells with half the usual chromosomes. This special process only happens when making sex cells (sperm and eggs).
Like mitosis, meiosis begins with chromosomes doubling and cell structures increasing. However, meiosis then goes through two rounds of division instead of just one. The first division splits the cell in two, but these cells aren't identical like in mitosis.
The second division splits those cells again, resulting in four genetically different cells. Each final cell has only 23 chromosomes instead of the usual 46 - exactly half the original number. This reduction is essential because when sperm and egg combine during fertilisation, they restore the full 46 chromosomes.
Key Point: Meiosis creates 4 genetically different cells, each with half the chromosomes of the parent cell.
The genetic differences created by meiosis explain why siblings look different from each other (unless they're identical twins). Each sperm and egg carries a unique combination of genetic material, making every person genetically unique.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Most popular content: Cell Division
Most popular content in Biology
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Understanding Cell Division: Mitosis and Meiosis Explained
Gabriela
@gabriela.my.school.journey16
Cell division is how your body grows, repairs itself, and creates new life. Understanding chromosomes and the two types of cell division - mitosis and meiosis - helps explain everything from why you look like your parents to how cuts... Show more
Chromosomes and Cell Division Basics
Think of chromosomes as tightly packed instruction manuals for your body - they're coiled strands of DNA found in every cell's nucleus. Each chromosome carries hundreds of genes, which are like individual recipes telling your cells how to make different proteins.
Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes (46 total), whilst other species have completely different numbers. These chromosomes work in pairs because you inherit one set from each parent, which is why you might have your mum's eyes but your dad's nose.
Cell division happens constantly in your body for two main reasons: growth and repair. When you were developing from a tiny embryo, cell division helped you grow bigger. Now it's busy replacing the millions of skin cells you shed daily and creating new blood cells.
Quick Fact: Your skin completely replaces itself every 2-4 weeks through cell division!
You'll find mitosis happening right now in your skin, blood, and digestive system. In plants, it's particularly active at root and shoot tips, which is why plants can keep growing throughout their lives.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Mitosis: Making Identical Copies
Mitosis is like a photocopier for cells - it creates two identical copies from one original cell. This process is crucial for growth and replacing worn-out cells in your body.
The process starts when chromosomes double themselves through DNA replication. At the same time, important cell parts like ribosomes and mitochondria increase in number. Think of this as getting ready to split everything equally between two new cells.
During the actual division, the cell carefully pulls one copy of each chromosome to opposite ends. The cytoplasm and cell membrane then split down the middle, creating two completely separate cells. Both daughter cells end up genetically identical to the original parent cell.
Remember: Mitosis always produces 2 identical cells with the same chromosome number as the parent.
This process ensures that every new cell in your body has exactly the same genetic information, which is why your liver cells and muscle cells both contain your complete DNA blueprint.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Meiosis: Creating Genetic Variety
Meiosis is completely different from mitosis - instead of making identical copies, it creates four genetically unique cells with half the usual chromosomes. This special process only happens when making sex cells (sperm and eggs).
Like mitosis, meiosis begins with chromosomes doubling and cell structures increasing. However, meiosis then goes through two rounds of division instead of just one. The first division splits the cell in two, but these cells aren't identical like in mitosis.
The second division splits those cells again, resulting in four genetically different cells. Each final cell has only 23 chromosomes instead of the usual 46 - exactly half the original number. This reduction is essential because when sperm and egg combine during fertilisation, they restore the full 46 chromosomes.
Key Point: Meiosis creates 4 genetically different cells, each with half the chromosomes of the parent cell.
The genetic differences created by meiosis explain why siblings look different from each other (unless they're identical twins). Each sperm and egg carries a unique combination of genetic material, making every person genetically unique.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
5
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Most popular content: Cell Division
Most popular content in Biology
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user