Why is mitosis called equational division?

Mitosis is termed equational division because it produces two daughter cells that have the same number and type of chromosomes as the parent cell.

This process ensures that the diploid chromosome number (2n) remains constant in both daughter cells, maintaining genetic stability across cell generations.

During mitosis, the replicated chromosomes are equally distributed into two nuclei, ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.

This equal distribution is crucial for the growth and repair of tissues, as it allows for the replacement of cells without altering the organism’s genetic information.

In contrast to meiosis, which reduces the chromosome number by half, mitosis maintains the original chromosome number, hence the term “equational division.”