Mitosis and Meiosis: Essential Cell Division Processes in A-Level Biology
Cell division through mitosis and meiosisforms a... Show more
Responding to change (a2 only)
Infection and response
Homeostasis and response
Energy transfers (a2 only)
Cell biology
Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments (a-level only)
Biological molecules
Organisation
Substance exchange
Bioenergetics
Genetic information & variation
Inheritance, variation and evolution
Genetics & ecosystems (a2 only)
Ecology
Cells
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Britain & the wider world: 1745 -1901
1l the quest for political stability: germany, 1871-1991
The cold war
Inter-war germany
Medieval period: 1066 -1509
2d religious conflict and the church in england, c1529-c1570
2o democracy and nazism: germany, 1918-1945
1f industrialisation and the people: britain, c1783-1885
1c the tudors: england, 1485-1603
2m wars and welfare: britain in transition, 1906-1957
World war two & the holocaust
2n revolution and dictatorship: russia, 1917-1953
2s the making of modern britain, 1951-2007
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Biology
7 Dec 2025
1,141
9 pages
Molly Gowar @mollygowar
Mitosis and Meiosis: Essential Cell Division Processes in A-Level Biology
Cell division through mitosis and meiosisforms a... Show more

This page delves into homologous chromosomes, ploidy levels, and introduces the cell cycle for Eduqas A Level Biology students.
Key concepts covered
Definition Diploid refers to having two complete sets of chromosomes, symbolized as 2n. In humans, the diploid number is 2n = 46.
Highlight Homologous chromosomes are matching pairs that are identical in size and shape, carrying genes for the same characteristics but potentially different alleles.
Vocabulary Ploidy level - the number of complete sets of chromosomes in an organism.
Example Human body cells are diploid (2n), while gametes are haploid (n).

This page focuses on the process of mitosis and its stages, crucial for Eduqas A Level Biology students studying cell division.
Key points covered
Definition Mitosis is a type of cell division producing two genetically identical daughter cells.
Highlight Interphase is the longest phase of the cell cycle, involving significant metabolic activity and DNA replication.
Vocabulary S phase - the part of interphase where DNA replication occurs (synthesis phase).
Example During prophase, chromosomes condense and become visible, while the nuclear envelope disintegrates and the spindle forms.

Page 3 The Cell Cycle and Interphase
The page details the cell cycle, focusing on interphase as the longest and most metabolically active phase.
Highlight Interphase involves cell growth, organelle replication, and DNA synthesis.
Definition The S phase (synthesis) is when DNA replication occurs during interphase.
Vocabulary Chromatin refers to the dispersed nuclear material when chromosomes aren't visible.

Page 4 Cytokinesis in Different Cell Types
This section compares cytokinesis in animal and plant cells, highlighting their distinct division mechanisms.
Example Animal cells divide through constriction at the equator, while plant cells form a cell plate.
Vocabulary Cytokinesis is the process of cytoplasm division following nuclear division.

Page 5 Significance of Mitosis
The importance of mitosis in maintaining genetic stability and enabling growth is explained.
Highlight Mitosis produces genetically identical daughter cells with the same chromosome number as the parent cell.
Example Mitosis enables tissue repair, asexual reproduction, and growth in organisms.

Page 6 Introduction to Meiosis
The page explains why meiosis is necessary and describes its two main divisions.
Highlight Without meiosis, chromosome numbers would double each generation.
Definition Meiosis I separates homologous chromosomes, while meiosis II separates sister chromatids.

Page 7 Genetic Recombination
This section focuses on crossing over and genetic variation during meiosis.
Definition Crossing over involves DNA exchange between chromatids of homologous chromosomes.
Highlight This process creates new combinations of alleles, increasing genetic variation.

Page 8 Meiosis Completion and Significance
The final stages of meiosis and its biological importance are detailed.
Highlight Meiosis maintains constant chromosome numbers across generations while creating genetic variation.
Example Crossing over in prophase I and independent assortment in metaphase contribute to genetic diversity.

This page introduces fundamental concepts related to chromosomes and cell division in Eduqas A Level Biology.
Key points covered
Definition A chromosome is a long, thin structure of DNA and protein in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, carrying genes.
Vocabulary Chromatid - one of two identical copies of a chromosome, joined at the centromere, prior to cell division.
Highlight Chromosomes only become visible when chromatin condenses prior to cell division, after DNA replication.
Example Humans have 46 chromosomes in their body cells, but this number varies among different species.
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.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the detailed stages of mitosis, including Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase. This summary highlights key events such as chromatin condensation, spindle apparatus formation, and cytokinesis, essential for A Level Biology students. Understand the cell cycle phases and their significance in cell division.
Explore key concepts in cell biology, including microscopy techniques, cell structures, and the differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. This summary covers essential information for GCSE Biology Paper One, focusing on specialized cells and their functions. Ideal for quick revision and understanding of cellular structures and functions.
Explore essential concepts for Biology Paper 1, including eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell structures, mitosis, enzyme functions, and the human circulatory and digestive systems. This comprehensive summary is perfect for exam preparation and understanding key biological processes.
Explore the essential processes of photosynthesis, including the role of chlorophyll, light-dependent reactions, and factors affecting plant growth. This summary covers the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into glucose, the importance of light, and adaptations of leaves for optimal photosynthesis. Ideal for GCSE Biology students seeking to understand plant productivity and the significance of photosynthesis in ecosystems.
Explore the key concepts of cell division, including mitosis and meiosis, alongside biological classification methods such as phylogeny and species classification. This summary provides a clear overview of the processes involved in cell division and the importance of classifying organisms based on observable characteristics and genetic relationships. Ideal for GCSE Biology students.
Explore the processes of cell differentiation, the cell cycle, mitosis, and meiosis. Understand the roles of stem cells, their potency, and the significance of specialized cells like erythrocytes and neutrophils. This summary also addresses ethical concerns surrounding stem cell use and highlights the organization of cells into tissues and organs.
Quotes from every main character
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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
Molly Gowar
@mollygowar
Mitosis and Meiosis: Essential Cell Division Processes in A-Level Biology
Cell division through mitosis and meiosis forms a crucial component of Eduqas A Level Biology Component 2. These processes ensure genetic continuity and variation in living organisms.
Key points:... Show more

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This page delves into homologous chromosomes, ploidy levels, and introduces the cell cycle for Eduqas A Level Biology students.
Key concepts covered:
Definition: Diploid refers to having two complete sets of chromosomes, symbolized as 2n. In humans, the diploid number is 2n = 46.
Highlight: Homologous chromosomes are matching pairs that are identical in size and shape, carrying genes for the same characteristics but potentially different alleles.
Vocabulary: Ploidy level - the number of complete sets of chromosomes in an organism.
Example: Human body cells are diploid (2n), while gametes are haploid (n).

Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
This page focuses on the process of mitosis and its stages, crucial for Eduqas A Level Biology students studying cell division.
Key points covered:
Definition: Mitosis is a type of cell division producing two genetically identical daughter cells.
Highlight: Interphase is the longest phase of the cell cycle, involving significant metabolic activity and DNA replication.
Vocabulary: S phase - the part of interphase where DNA replication occurs (synthesis phase).
Example: During prophase, chromosomes condense and become visible, while the nuclear envelope disintegrates and the spindle forms.

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Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 3: The Cell Cycle and Interphase
The page details the cell cycle, focusing on interphase as the longest and most metabolically active phase.
Highlight: Interphase involves cell growth, organelle replication, and DNA synthesis.
Definition: The S phase (synthesis) is when DNA replication occurs during interphase.
Vocabulary: Chromatin refers to the dispersed nuclear material when chromosomes aren't visible.

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Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 4: Cytokinesis in Different Cell Types
This section compares cytokinesis in animal and plant cells, highlighting their distinct division mechanisms.
Example: Animal cells divide through constriction at the equator, while plant cells form a cell plate.
Vocabulary: Cytokinesis is the process of cytoplasm division following nuclear division.

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Improve your grades
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By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 5: Significance of Mitosis
The importance of mitosis in maintaining genetic stability and enabling growth is explained.
Highlight: Mitosis produces genetically identical daughter cells with the same chromosome number as the parent cell.
Example: Mitosis enables tissue repair, asexual reproduction, and growth in organisms.

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Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 6: Introduction to Meiosis
The page explains why meiosis is necessary and describes its two main divisions.
Highlight: Without meiosis, chromosome numbers would double each generation.
Definition: Meiosis I separates homologous chromosomes, while meiosis II separates sister chromatids.

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Improve your grades
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By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 7: Genetic Recombination
This section focuses on crossing over and genetic variation during meiosis.
Definition: Crossing over involves DNA exchange between chromatids of homologous chromosomes.
Highlight: This process creates new combinations of alleles, increasing genetic variation.

Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 8: Meiosis Completion and Significance
The final stages of meiosis and its biological importance are detailed.
Highlight: Meiosis maintains constant chromosome numbers across generations while creating genetic variation.
Example: Crossing over in prophase I and independent assortment in metaphase contribute to genetic diversity.

Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
This page introduces fundamental concepts related to chromosomes and cell division in Eduqas A Level Biology.
Key points covered:
Definition: A chromosome is a long, thin structure of DNA and protein in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, carrying genes.
Vocabulary: Chromatid - one of two identical copies of a chromosome, joined at the centromere, prior to cell division.
Highlight: Chromosomes only become visible when chromatin condenses prior to cell division, after DNA replication.
Example: Humans have 46 chromosomes in their body cells, but this number varies among different species.
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.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
19
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the detailed stages of mitosis, including Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase. This summary highlights key events such as chromatin condensation, spindle apparatus formation, and cytokinesis, essential for A Level Biology students. Understand the cell cycle phases and their significance in cell division.
Explore key concepts in cell biology, including microscopy techniques, cell structures, and the differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. This summary covers essential information for GCSE Biology Paper One, focusing on specialized cells and their functions. Ideal for quick revision and understanding of cellular structures and functions.
Explore essential concepts for Biology Paper 1, including eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell structures, mitosis, enzyme functions, and the human circulatory and digestive systems. This comprehensive summary is perfect for exam preparation and understanding key biological processes.
Explore the essential processes of photosynthesis, including the role of chlorophyll, light-dependent reactions, and factors affecting plant growth. This summary covers the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into glucose, the importance of light, and adaptations of leaves for optimal photosynthesis. Ideal for GCSE Biology students seeking to understand plant productivity and the significance of photosynthesis in ecosystems.
Explore the key concepts of cell division, including mitosis and meiosis, alongside biological classification methods such as phylogeny and species classification. This summary provides a clear overview of the processes involved in cell division and the importance of classifying organisms based on observable characteristics and genetic relationships. Ideal for GCSE Biology students.
Explore the processes of cell differentiation, the cell cycle, mitosis, and meiosis. Understand the roles of stem cells, their potency, and the significance of specialized cells like erythrocytes and neutrophils. This summary also addresses ethical concerns surrounding stem cell use and highlights the organization of cells into tissues and organs.
Quotes from every main character
App Store
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