What is the purpose of mitosis?

Mitosis is the process of cell division in which a single cell divides to form two new daughter cells. The primary purpose of mitosis is to separate the genome in a way that ensures the two newly formed daughter cells inherit equal and identical complement of chromosomes. This serves several critical purposes related to: 

• Cell development and growth – The embryo keeps growing using mitosis throughout the organism’s life, thus preserving the original chromosomal set. 
• Cell repair and replacement – Mitosis helps to create identical new cells to replace cells that are damaged or dead, ensuring continuing functionality. 

In single-celled eukaryotes, mitosis serves as a form of asexual reproduction.