Mitosis vs Meiosis Key Differences — NEET Biology

Correct answer: B — S1, S2, S4, and S5 are correct

Let's evaluate each statement: S1. Correct. Mitosis is known as an equational division, separating sister chromatids and maintaining the chromosome number. Meiosis II also separates sister chromatids and maintains the haploid chromosome number (n) inherited from Meiosis I. Therefore, both are equational divisions. S2. Correct. Meiosis I is a reductional division characterized by synapsis of homologous chromosomes, crossing over between non-sister chromatids, and the separation of homologous chromosomes, which reduces the chromosome number by half. S3. Incorrect. Interkinesis is the stage between Meiosis I and Meiosis II. It is generally short-lived, and critically, there is no replication of DNA during interkinesis. While some cell growth might occur, significant DNA replication does not. S4. Correct. Mitosis can occur in both haploid and diploid cells (e.g., male honey bees, and plants generally). Meiosis, being a reductional division leading to gamete formation, is indeed restricted to diploid cells. S5. Correct. In Metaphase I, homologous chromosomes paired as bivalents align at the equatorial plate. In contrast, during Metaphase II and mitotic metaphase, individual chromosomes (each still consisting of two sister chromatids) align at the equator. Therefore, statements S1, S2, S4, and S5 are correct, while S3 is incorrect.