Mitosis and chromosome distribution

Before ordinary mitotic cell division, a cell copies its DNA. During mitosis, the copied chromosomes are separated so that each new nucleus receives a set. Division of the cytoplasm then usually produces two daughter cells. A human body cell with 46 chromosomes normally produces daughter cells that each have 46 chromosomes after mitosis. DNA copying does not mean that each daughter permanently receives twice the original chromosome number. Mitosis supports growth and tissue repair.