Explain why mitosis is used for growth and repair in the human body, but meiosis is used for the production of gametes.

Eduqas GCSE Biology — 2.2.1 Mitosis and meiosis · Explain · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

Mitosis produces genetically identical daughter cells, so the new cells have the same DNA as the parent cell. This is essential for growth and repair because the new cells can perform the same specialised functions and replace damaged or lost cells correctly.

Meiosis, on the other hand, reduces the chromosome number by half, producing haploid gametes. When two gametes fuse at fertilisation, the diploid chromosome number is restored in the zygote, ensuring the correct genetic complement for the next generation.

Examiner tips

  • Use the word "genetically identical" for mitosis and "haploid" for meiosis
  • Explain the purpose of each process (growth/repair vs. fertilisation)
  • Show the link between chromosome number and zygote formation

Common mistakes

  • Confusing mitosis with meiosis or vice versa
  • Failing to mention that mitosis produces diploid cells
  • Not stating that meiosis halves the chromosome number

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. Mitosis produces genetically identical cells / daughter cells have the same genetic information as the parent cell
  2. This is needed for growth/repair so that new cells can carry out the same functions / replace damaged cells correctly
  3. Meiosis produces cells with half the number of chromosomes (haploid cells)
  4. So that when two gametes fuse at fertilisation, the correct / full chromosome number is restored in the zygote

Key terms in this question

mitosis · meiosis · gametes

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