Differentiate between somatic cells and germ cells in terms of their structure, function, and genetic composition.
The following the the differences between somatic and germ cells:
Feature | Somatic Cells | Germ Cells |
Structure | Diploid (2n) – It contains two sets of chromosomes. | Initially diploid, but mature gametes are haploid (n) after meiosis. |
Function | It forms body tissues and organs and is also responsible for their growth, repair, and maintenance. | It is involved in sexual reproduction and gives rise to gametes (sperm and egg cells). |
Genetic Composition | It contains a full set of chromosomes with their homologous pairs. | They undergo meiosis to produce genetically unique gametes with half their number of chromosomes (n). |