What is the term for the process of cell division in somatic cells?

The process of cell division in somatic cells is referred to as mitosis. This is the mechanism by which a single cell divides to produce two identical daughter cells, each having the same number of chromosomes as the original cell. Mitosis is crucial for growth, development, and repair in multicellular organisms, as it allows for the replacement of damaged or dead cells and the overall increase in cell number within the organism.

During mitosis, the cell goes through specific stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Each stage plays a vital role in ensuring the proper distribution of replicated chromosomes to the daughter cells, ultimately leading to two genetically identical cells. This is fundamental for the maintenance of genetic consistency throughout the somatic cells of an organism.

In contrast, options related to cell division processes such as meiosis involve the production of gametes (sperm and eggs) and result in cells with half the genetic material, while binary fission is a type of asexual reproduction in prokaryotes like bacteria. Cell differentiation refers to the process through which cells become specialized for specific functions and does not directly pertain to the division of cells.