Mitosis vs. Meiosis: Side by Side Comparison

Chromosome

A thread-like structure made of DNA that holds genetic information.

Chromatid

One of the two identical halves of a duplicated chromosome.

Chromatin

The material that makes up chromosomes, consisting of DNA and proteins.

Transcription

The process of copying a segment of DNA into RNA.

Translation

The process by which mRNA is decoded outside the nucleus to produce a protein.

Mitosis

A process of cell division that produces two identical diploid cells.

Meiosis

A process of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half to produce four non-identical haploid gametes.

Diploid

A cell that contains two complete sets of chromosomes, one from each parent (2n).

Haploid

A cell that contains only one complete set of chromosomes (n).

Cytokinesis

The division of the cytoplasm to form two separate daughter cells.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where the cell prepares for division, characterized by DNA replication.

Prophase

The first stage of mitosis and meiosis, where chromosomes become visible and condense.

Metaphase

The stage of mitosis and meiosis where chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell.

Anaphase

The stage of mitosis and meiosis where chromatids or chromosomes are pulled apart to opposite sides of the cell.

Telophase

The stage where the chromosomes arrive at opposite ends and new nuclei form.

Homologous chromosomes

Pair of chromosomes containing the same gene sequences, one from each parent.

Crossing over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during prophase I of meiosis.

Gametes

Reproductive cells (sperm and egg) that are haploid and combine during fertilization.

Zygote

The diploid cell that results from the fusion of a sperm and egg during fertilization.

PMAT

An acronym representing the phases of cell division: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.

Centriole

A structure in an animal cell that helps to organize the mitotic spindle during cell division.