What is the main difference between mitosis and meiosis?

The main difference between mitosis and meiosis lies in their purposes and outcomes, particularly regarding chromosome number. Meiosis results in gametes, which are the reproductive cells (sperm and egg) of organisms. During meiosis, a single cell undergoes two rounds of division, ultimately producing four genetically diverse cells, each containing half the original chromosome number. This is crucial for sexual reproduction, as it ensures that when fertilization occurs, the resulting zygote has the correct diploid number of chromosomes.

In contrast, mitosis is a process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells, maintaining the same chromosome number as the original cell. It is primarily involved in growth, repair, and asexual reproduction in multicellular organisms. Thus, the reduction of chromosome number in meiosis is specifically important for maintaining genetic diversity and the stability of chromosome numbers across generations in sexually reproducing species.