A student states: 'Mitosis and meiosis both involve a cell dividing, so they must produce the same types of cells for the same purposes.' Explain why this statement is incorrect.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Model answer (4 marks)
Mitosis produces two daughter cells, each with the same chromosome number as the parent cell (diploid). Meiosis produces four daughter cells, each with half the chromosome number (haploid). Mitosis is used for growth, repair and asexual reproduction, whereas meiosis is used to produce gametes for sexual reproduction.
Examiner tips
- Use the word ‘produce’ to link to the mark scheme points. Mention both the number of cells and chromosome number. Explain the different purposes (growth vs. gamete formation).
Common mistakes
- Confusing the number of daughter cells in mitosis and meiosis. Forgetting that mitotic cells are diploid while meiotic cells are haploid. Not stating the distinct purposes of each process.
Mark scheme (4 marks)
- Mitosis produces two daughter cells / meiosis produces four daughter cells
- Mitosis produces cells with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell (diploid) / meiosis produces cells with half the number of chromosomes (haploid)
- Mitosis is used for growth, repair, or asexual reproduction
- Meiosis is used to produce gametes (sex cells) for sexual reproduction
Key terms in this question
Related
- All Eduqas GCSE Biology revision notes →
- How to answer a "Explain" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →
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