All of the following are similarities between mitosis and meiosis EXCEPT:
Group of answer choices
A. Sister chromatids separate
B. Chromosomes are duplicated during S phase
C. A spindle is formed
D. Unique daughter cells are formed
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is D. Unique daughter cells are formed.
Explanation:
Mitosis and meiosis are both processes of cell division, but they have key differences in their purpose and outcomes. Let’s explore the similarities and differences between the two processes in detail.
- Sister chromatids separate (A):
Both mitosis and meiosis involve the separation of sister chromatids. In mitosis, the sister chromatids of each chromosome are separated during the anaphase of mitosis, ensuring that two identical daughter cells are formed. In meiosis, sister chromatids separate during both meiosis I (at the second division, called meiosis II) and meiosis II. This step ensures that the resulting daughter cells have a full set of chromosomes or half the number, depending on whether the division is mitosis or meiosis. - Chromosomes are duplicated during S phase (B):
In both mitosis and meiosis, DNA replication occurs during the S phase of the cell cycle. This step is crucial because it ensures that each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids before the cell undergoes division. This duplication is required for both processes to ensure the correct genetic material is passed on to the daughter cells. - A spindle is formed (C):
Both processes require the formation of a spindle apparatus during cell division. The spindle fibers help align chromosomes during metaphase and pull the chromosomes apart during anaphase. This structure is essential for the proper separation of chromosomes in both mitosis and meiosis. - Unique daughter cells are formed (D):
This is the key difference. In mitosis, the result is two identical daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell. These daughter cells have the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell. However, in meiosis, the result is four unique daughter cells (gametes) that have half the chromosome number of the parent cell. These cells are genetically distinct due to the processes of recombination and independent assortment during meiosis I. Therefore, the formation of unique daughter cells is a feature exclusive to meiosis, not mitosis.
In summary, the statement “Unique daughter cells are formed” applies only to meiosis and not mitosis, making it the correct exception.