---
title: "Cell Division — AP Bio Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Cell division is how a parent cell splits into daughter cells for growth, repair, and reproduction, and it's controlled by the cell cycle and its checkpoints."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-bio/key-terms/cell-division"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Biology"
---

# Cell Division — AP Bio Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Cell division is the process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells. It's essential for growth, repair, and reproduction in organisms.

## Related Study Guides

- [2.3 Plasma Membrane](/ap-bio/unit-2/cell-size/study-guide/3oB8hJyGwvYACz8XlUmG)
- [4.6 Regulation of the Cell Cycle](/ap-bio/unit-4/cell-cycle/study-guide/4ztGMFvp0v4KAzL65pOP)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Mitosis](/ap-bio/key-terms/mitosis): This is one type of cell division where one parent cell splits into two identical daughter cells.
- [Meiosis](/ap-bio/key-terms/meiosis): Another type of cell division used for sexual reproduction where one parent cell produces four non-identical daughter cells, each with half the number of chromosomes.
- [Cytokinesis](/ap-bio/key-terms/cytokinesis): The final stage in cell division where the cytoplasm of a parent cell is divided between the two daughter cells.