Mitosis and meiosis are two important ways that cells divide, but they do different things. Let’s break it down!

Mitosis:

• Purpose: This helps our bodies grow and heal.
• Process: Mitosis happens in one step and makes two identical daughter cells. Each of these cells has the same number of chromosomes as the original cell.
• Outcome: This is great for replacing cells that are dead or hurt, like skin cells, and it helps our bodies grow as we develop.

Meiosis:

• Purpose: This is important for creating new life.
• Process: Meiosis is a bit more complicated. It happens in two steps and makes four unique daughter cells. Each of these cells has half the genetic information of the original cell.
• Outcome: These cells turn into sperm and eggs. This mixing of genes is important for evolution and helps living things adapt to changes.

In short, mitosis is all about making copies to help us grow and repair our bodies. Meiosis, on the other hand, mixes up our genes to create new life in the future. Isn’t that fascinating?