What is the Difference Between Cell Division and Mitosis?

Cell division and mitosis are related but distinct processes. The main differences between them are as follows:

1. Purpose: Cell division is the process by which a parent cell divides to produce two daughter cells, which can be genetically identical (mitosis) or genetically different (meiosis). Mitosis, on the other hand, is specifically the process of nuclear division in eukaryotic cells, where a parent cell divides to produce two identical daughter cells.
2. Stages: Cell division can be divided into interphase, prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Mitosis is a specific stage within the cell division process and includes the separation of the duplicated genetic material carried in the nucleus.
3. Function: Mitosis is a type of cell division for somatic cells and for the asexual reproduction of unicellular organisms. In contrast, meiosis is the type of cell division for the production of gametes in sexual reproduction.
4. Genetic Variation: Mitosis results in two daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell. In meiosis, the parent cell undergoes two successive cell divisions, resulting in four daughter cells with different genetic material, halving the chromosome number and creating genetic diversity.

In summary, cell division is the broader process of cell reproduction, while mitosis is a specific step within the cell division process that focuses on the nuclear division.

Comparative Table: Cell Division vs Mitosis

Here is a table comparing the differences between cell division and mitosis:

Please note that the term "cell division" is often used interchangeably with mitosis, although cell division can also refer to meiosis. Both mitosis and meiosis are types of cell division, but they have distinct differences in their purpose, genetic outcomes, and the number of cell divisions involved.