1. Compare and contrast mitosis and meiosis.
2. What major event occurs during interphase?
Answer
| Mitosis | Meiosis |
|
It is the means of reproduction in single celled organisms. Other organisms use it for growth of tissues (somatic cells) |
Gamete formation during sexual reproduction occurs through meiosis. |
| Offspring receive same number of chromosomes |
Meiosis is reduction division, gametes receive half the number of chromosomes of its parents |
| There is no crossing over, recombination is absent | Crossing over occurs, and there is recombination |
| Pairing of homologues is absent | Pairing of chromosomes is present |
|
The steps involved are prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase |
It involves Meiosis 1 – prophase, Metaphase, anaphase, Telophase and Meiosis 2: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase |
| Interphase occurs prior to each division |
Interphase precedes meiosis I only, it does not occur before meiosis II |