| Arithmetic growth | Geometric growth |
| 1. In arithmetic growth only one daughter cell continues to divide, while the other undergoes differentiation and maturation. | 1. In geometric growth both the daughter cells continue to divide and redivide again and again. |
| 2. Rate of growth is constant. | 2 Rate growth is initially slow but later on rapid rate. |
| 3. Linear curve is obtained. | 3. Exponential curve is obtained. |
| 4. Mathematical expression is Lt = Lo + rt where Lt = length of time ‘t’ Lo = Length at time zero rt = growth rate, t = time of growth | 4. Mathematical expression is Wt = Woert where, Wt = final size, Wo = initial size, r = growth rate, t = time of growth E = base of natural logarithm |
| 5. e.g. Elongation of root | 5. e.g. Divisions of zygote during embryo development. |
