What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis, and what are their primary purposes?

• A. Mitosis produces four haploid cells; meiosis yields two diploid cells
• B. Mitosis occurs in germ cells only; meiosis occurs in somatic cells
• C. Mitosis produces two identical diploid cells for growth and repair; meiosis reduces chromosome number to produce haploid gametes and increases genetic variation
• D. Mitosis and meiosis both create identical cells with no genetic variation

Answer: (C)