How do mitosis and meiosis differ in their outcomes?

Mitosis and meiosis are two distinct forms of cell division that serve different purposes in living organisms. Mitosis is responsible for producing two daughter cells that are genetically identical to the original cell, maintaining the same chromosome number. This process is crucial for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction in multicellular organisms.

In contrast, meiosis is a specialized form of cell division that occurs during the formation of gametes (egg and sperm cells) in sexually reproducing organisms. Meiosis consists of two rounds of division, resulting in four non-identical cells, each with half the chromosome number of the original cell. This reduction in chromosome number and the introduction of genetic variation through processes such as crossing-over and independent assortment are key to sexual reproduction, making each gamete genetically unique.

The correct answer highlights that mitosis results in two genetically identical daughter cells, while meiosis produces four genetically diverse gametes, reinforcing the distinct roles these processes play in the life cycle and genetic diversity of organisms.