Question

cell division can occur by either of two distinct processes, mitosis or meiosis. however, each process has a unique function. determine whether each phrase describes mitosis, meiosis, or both. place each phrase in the correct category.
mitosis
both mitosis and meiosis
meiosis
answer bank
forms four haploid gametes
contributes to genetic diversity through crossing over
used for asexual reproduction
duplication of chromosomes occurs before cell division
results in two diploid cells identical to the parent cell

Explanation:

• Mitosis:
• "used for asexual reproduction" as mitosis is the process by which single - celled organisms (and some multi - celled organisms) reproduce asexually, creating genetically identical offspring.
• "results in two diploid cells identical to the parent cell" is a key characteristic of mitosis. In mitosis, a single diploid parent cell divides to produce two diploid daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent.
• Both mitosis and meiosis:
• "duplication of chromosomes occurs before cell division". In both mitosis and meiosis, DNA replication (chromosome duplication) occurs during the S - phase of the cell cycle before the actual cell division (mitosis or meiosis) takes place.
• Meiosis:
• "forms four haploid gametes". Meiosis is a two - step cell division process (meiosis I and meiosis II) that starts with a diploid cell and results in four haploid gametes (in animals, these are sperm and eggs).
• "contributes to genetic diversity through crossing over". During prophase I of meiosis, homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material in a process called crossing over. This leads to genetic recombination and increased genetic diversity in the gametes produced.

Answer:

• Mitosis: used for asexual reproduction, results in two diploid cells identical to the parent cell
• Both mitosis and meiosis: duplication of chromosomes occurs before cell division
• Meiosis: forms four haploid gametes, contributes to genetic diversity through crossing over