how are somatic cells different from gametes
Somatic cells and gametes are different in several ways:
1. Formation: Somatic cells are formed through mitosis, a type of cell division that results in two identical daughter cells with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell. Gametes, on the other hand, are formed through meiosis, a type of cell division that results in four non-identical daughter cells with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.
2. Chromosome Number: Somatic cells are diploid, meaning they have two sets of chromosomes (one set from each parent), represented as 2n. Gametes, on the other hand, are haploid, meaning they have a single set of chromosomes, represented as n.
3. Function: Somatic cells make up the majority of an organism's body tissues and perform various specialized functions, such as muscle contraction, nerve transmission, or nutrient absorption. Gametes, on the other hand, are reproductive cells responsible for sexual reproduction. They fuse during fertilization to create a new organism with a complete set of chromosomes.
4. Genetic Variation: Somatic cells are genetically identical to the parent organism, as they are produced through mitosis. Gametes, on the other hand, undergo recombination during meiosis, which shuffles and exchanges genetic material between chromosomes, resulting in genetic variation. This variation is essential for the genetic diversity and adaptability of the offspring.