Mitosis ensures genetic consistency across generations of cells. Stages: 1. Prophase: Chromosomes condense, and the nuclear envelope breaks down. 2. Metaphase: Chromosomes align at the cell’s center. 3. Anaphase: Sister chromatids separate to opposite poles. 4. Telophase: Nuclear membranes reform around the chromatids. Mitosis ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.

Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing four non-identical haploid cells. It is essential for sexual reproduction as it forms gametes (sperm and egg cells) that combine during fertilization to restore the diploid number and promote genetic diversity.

The cell cycle is the series of events that lead to the division of a cell and the formation of two daughter cells. It includes phases like interphase and mitosis.