Mitosis: Producing Genetically Identical Cells

Mitosis is a process of cell division that results in genetically identical cells. It is essential for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction in organisms.

Definition: Mitosis is the process of cell division that produces two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell.

The stages of mitosis include:

1. Interphase: The cell prepares for division by making extra parts and copying all chromosomes.
2. Prophase: Spindle fibers form, and the nuclear membrane begins to disappear.
3. Metaphase: Chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell.
4. Anaphase: Chromosomes are pulled apart by spindles.
5. Telophase: Single chromosomes arrive at opposite ends of the cell, and nuclear membranes start to reform.
6. Cytokinesis: The cytoplasm separates, and the cell membrane divides into two daughter cells.

Highlight: Mitosis produces two diploid daughter cells (46 chromosomes) that are genetically identical to the parent cell.

Example: Mitosis is responsible for the growth and repair of body cells, such as skin cell regeneration after a cut.

Reproduction: Asexual vs. Sexual

Reproduction can occur through asexual or sexual means, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Asexual Reproduction:

• Involves one parent
• Produces identical offspring
• Faster process
• Occurs through mitosis

Vocabulary: Tumors are the result of uncontrollable cell division, often leading to cancer.

Sexual Reproduction:

• Involves two parents (gametes)
• Produces variation in offspring
• Slower process
• Occurs through meiosis

Highlight: The difference between mitosis and meiosis is primarily in the number of divisions and the genetic makeup of the resulting cells.