What are the primary purposes of mitosis?

The primary purposes of mitosis are indeed centered around growth and the production of genetically identical cells. Mitosis is a process of cell division that ensures that each daughter cell receives an exact copy of the parent cell's genetic material. This is crucial for the growth of multicellular organisms, as it allows for the development of tissues and organs by increasing the number of cells.

The process of mitosis involves a series of well-defined stages—prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase—that lead to the separation of chromosomes, ensuring that each new cell has the same DNA as the original cell. Additionally, mitosis is fundamental for repairing damaged tissues and replacing dead or dying cells, thereby maintaining homeostasis in an organism.

In contrast, the other options focus on processes that are not directly related to the core function of mitosis. For instance, replication and protein synthesis are essential cellular functions but are not specific to mitosis. Similarly, cell metabolism and nutrient absorption are vital for cell function but occur independently of mitosis. Energy production and waste elimination represent other key biological processes that do not pertain directly to the process of cell division.