Which process results in the formation of genetically identical cells?

Mitosis is the process that leads to the formation of genetically identical cells. During mitosis, a single cell divides to produce two daughter cells that are clones of the original cell, containing the same number of chromosomes and identical genetic information. This process is critical for growth, tissue repair, and asexual reproduction in organisms.

In the stages of mitosis—prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase—various mechanisms ensure that each daughter cell receives an exact copy of the parent cell's DNA. DNA replication occurs prior to mitosis, so by the time the cell enters mitosis, it contains two complete sets of chromosomes. This careful distribution ensures that both daughter cells end up with the same genetic material, maintaining genetic consistency.

In contrast, meiosis produces genetically diverse cells through two rounds of division and the process of recombination, while replication and transcription refer to the processes of copying DNA and synthesizing RNA, respectively, and do not directly lead to the formation of cells.