The process of cell growth and development is called:

The process of cell growth and development is called proliferation. Proliferation refers specifically to the process by which cells undergo division and multiply, contributing to tissue growth, repair, and overall development. In the context of biology and radiation therapy, understanding proliferation is crucial because it affects how tissues respond to radiation. Rapidly dividing cells, such as those found in tumors, are more susceptible to radiation damage.

While mitosis is specifically the type of cell division that occurs during proliferation, it does not encompass all aspects of cell growth and development. Meiosis, on the other hand, is a specialized form of division that leads to the creation of gametes and is not involved in the general growth of somatic cells. Differentiation refers to the process by which unspecialized cells develop into specialized cells with distinct functions, which is a separate aspect of development. In summary, proliferation captures the essence of cell growth and development as it encompasses the entire pathway of cell division and increase in cell number.