What is the Difference Between Equational Division and Reduction Division?

The difference between equational division and reduction division lies in the number of chromosomes in the daughter cells produced during meiosis.

Reduction Division (Meiosis I):

Reduces the number of chromosomes inherited by each daughter cell.
Occurs in germ cells.
Homologous chromosome pairing and genetic recombination take place during this division.
Two daughter cells are produced at the end of this division.

Equational Division (Meiosis II):

Chromosome number remains in the haploid state without reducing.
Occurs in germ cells.
Results in the segregation of sister chromatids.
Four daughter cells are produced at the end of this division.

In summary, reduction division (meiosis I) reduces the chromosome number to half, while equational division (meiosis II) maintains the haploid state of chromosomes without reducing their number. These two divisions occur during meiosis, a vital process in sexual reproduction that facilitates the production of genetically different gametes.

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What is the Difference Between Equational Division and Reduction Division?

Comparative Table: Equational Division vs Reduction Division

Here is a table comparing equational division and reduction division:

Feature	Equational Division	Reduction Division
Definition	Equational division is the second division of meiosis, also known as meiosis II.	Reduction division is the first division of meiosis, also known as meiosis I.
Chromosome Number	The division begins with two haploid cells and produces four haploid cells, with no change in the chromosome number.	The division reduces the chromosome number from diploid to haploid.
Genetic Material	Genetic material is transmitted equally into daughter cells.	Genetic material is reduced in half and transmits to daughter cells.
Daughter Cells	Produces four daughter cells.	Produces two daughter cells.
Chiasmata	Chiasmata, or physical contact between chromatids, occur at least once per chromosome pair, leading to the formation of new combinations of maternal and paternal haplotypes.	Chiasmata play a role in the exchange of genetic information between homologous chromosomes.

Both equational division and reduction division occur in meiosis, a cell division process that takes place in the sexual reproduction of organisms. These divisions are responsible for producing gametes (egg and sperm cells) with the appropriate number of chromosomes.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.