Humans = 22 pairs of chromosomes and 1 pair of sex chromosomes

Mitosis -

Mitosis = Nuclear division giving rise to genetically identical cells

Process -

  1. Before mitosis each chromosome copies itself exactly [x shaped chromosomes]
  2. chromosomes line up along center of cell and fibers pull them apart
  3. Cell divides into two, with each having a copy of each chromosome [maintains chromosome number]

Uses -

  1. All cells in body [other than gametes] are produced by mitosis of zygote
  2. Growth - produce new cells
  3. Repair - replace damaged/dead cells
  4. Asexual reproduction - Produces offspring genetically identical to parent
  5. Stem cell

Stem Cells -

Stem cells - Unspecialized cells that divide by mitosis to produce daughter cells that can become specialized for specific functions

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