How is mitosis best defined?

Mitosis is best defined as a process of cell division that generates new cells for growth and repair. During mitosis, a single cell divides to produce two genetically identical daughter cells, each containing the same number of chromosomes as the original cell. This process is fundamental for the growth of organisms, as well as for the repair of tissues after injury. For example, when skin is damaged, mitosis allows for the replacement of lost or damaged cells, ensuring that the tissue can heal and maintain its function.

The other options do not accurately encompass the primary role of mitosis. While cell division that creates gametes is characteristic of meiosis, aging involves a variety of cellular processes, and not all cell division is linked to it specifically. Additionally, cell division occurs in many types of cells throughout the body, not exclusively in skin cells. Therefore, the most accurate definition of mitosis is centered around its essential role in growth and repair.