# Explain why the daughter cells produced by mitosis must be genetically identical to the parent cell, and describe the role of the cell cycle in ensuring this outcome.

> Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0) — 2.1 Mitosis and the cell cycle · Explain · 4 marks

> In the human body, millions of cells are produced every second to replace worn-out or damaged tissue. These new cells are produced by mitosis.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Mitosis produces daughter cells that are genetically identical because DNA replication occurs (during interphase) so each daughter cell receives the same genetic information as the parent cell.
2. During mitosis, the replicated chromosomes (chromatids) are separated and pulled to opposite poles of the cell, so each new cell receives a full set of chromosomes.
3. The daughter cells produced are diploid, containing two copies of each chromosome, the same number as the parent cell.
4. The cell cycle ensures this process is repeated, including a growth phase and DNA replication (interphase) before every division, so every new cell produced has the correct genetic information.

## Key terms

- [mitosis](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/mitosis)
- [cell cycle](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/cell-cycle)
- [daughter cells](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/daughter-cells)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

---
Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-the-daughter-cells-produced-06bff663) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.