Chapter 14, Problem 39A

Summary Introduction

To compare:

Mitosis in plants and animal cells.

Introduction:

Mitosis is described as a process in which a single cell is divided into two daughter cells (identical) and it is called mitotic cell division. The main purpose of mitosis is growth and to replace the old cells.

Explanation of Solution

Both the animal and plant cells undergo mitosis/mitotic cell division. The major difference between the two types of cells in the formation of daughter cells during the process of cytokinesis. During the stage of cytokinesis, a cleavage or a furrow is formed in daughter cells. Whereas, in plant cells, no such furrows are formed because of the rigid cell wall. Animals cells during mitosis have centrioles that support the mitotic spindle. Whereas, plant cells lack centrioles.