What is the difference between Meiosis 1 and Meiosis 2?

Meiosis is the means in which sex cells called gametes divide. Meiosis one is the first stage of this division. The cell begins with 2 chromosomes and 2 daughter cells are produced. In meiosis 1, there is separation of homologous chromosomes.

Genetic recombination is seen only in meiosis 1. This is the process when chromosomes exchange some sections of DNA to produce a unique combination. In meiosis 2, there is separation of the sister chromatids. It begins with the daughter cells. In meiosis 2, the daughter cells have 1 chromatid each. 4 sister chromatids are produced at the end.

It is in meiosis I that the homologous chromosomes start to separate. In meiosis II, the sister chromatids begin to separate from each other. It is also in meiosis 1 that diploid daughter cells are produced. In meiosis II, four haploid cells are produced. Take note that there are so many other similarities and differences between these two phases and aside from these, there are also other phases that you have to know more about.

The more that you understand it, the more that you will become fascinated with how different cells are duplicated so that people can be unique. Do remember that it is only in meiosis I wherein crossing over can occur.