The term for the process by which cells divide is called mitosis for somatic cells and meiosis for reproductive cells. Mitosis is essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of tissues, resulting in two genetically identical daughter cells. It consists of several stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, followed by cytokinesis, where the cytoplasm divides. On the other hand, meiosis occurs in germ cells, producing gametes (sperm and eggs) with half the genetic material, allowing for genetic variation in offspring. Both processes are critical for biological development and reproduction in living organisms.