The main difference between prokaryotic cell division and eukaryotic cell division lies in their complexity and the processes involved:
1. Prokaryotic Cell Division:
- Prokaryotic cells undergo a simpler form of division called binary fission.
- In binary fission, the cell replicates its DNA, grows in size, and then divides into two identical daughter cells.
- Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus, so the DNA replication and division process is relatively straightforward and involves fewer organelles.
- Examples of prokaryotic cells are bacteria and archaea.
2. Eukaryotic Cell Division:
- Eukaryotic cells undergo a more complex form of division known as mitosis (for somatic cells) or meiosis (for reproductive cells).
- Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus containing multiple chromosomes, and the division process is highly regulated and involves intricate steps.
- Mitosis is the process of dividing somatic cells into two identical daughter cells for growth, repair, and maintenance.
- Meiosis is a specialized form of cell division that produces gametes (sperm and eggs) with half the number of chromosomes for sexual reproduction.
- Eukaryotic cell division involves multiple organelles like the nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and others working together in a coordinated manner.
In summary, prokaryotic cell division (binary fission) is simpler and lacks a nucleus, while eukaryotic cell division (mitosis or meiosis) is more complex, regulated, and involves various organelles due to the presence of a nucleus and multiple chromosomes.
