Cell Biology Quiz: DNA & Cell division

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What is the primary function of DNA within a cell?

Code for protein synthesis (correct)

Storage of genetic information

Facilitation of cellular respiration

Regulation of metabolic processes

What happens to DNA before a cell undergoes division?

DNA is translated into proteins

DNA is stored in the nucleus

DNA is degraded to release energy

DNA condenses into chromosomes (correct)

What is a key disadvantage of sexual reproduction in plants?

Produces genetically identical offspring

Requires only a single organism

Requires time and resources to find a partner (correct)

Involves rapid population growth

What is the function of the centromere within a chromosome?

Connects sister chromatids Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for cell division among living organisms?

For growth and repair Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a disadvantage of asexual reproduction?

Requires a partner Signup and view all the answers

Among the following organisms, which one typically reproduces asexually?

Fungi Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is true regarding sexual reproduction?

Involves the fusion of gametes Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of the lack of genetic diversity in asexual reproduction?

Higher likelihood of extinction due to diseases Signup and view all the answers

What occurs during prophase in meiosis?

Microtubules form spindle fibers and DNA condenses into chromosomes. Signup and view all the answers

During which stage do the chromosomes align in the center of the cell?

Metaphase Signup and view all the answers

What changes occur during anaphase?

Centromeres divide and chromatids are pulled apart. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of telophase during meiosis?

Spindle fibers disassemble and nuclear envelope reforms. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the role of spindle fibers during cell division?

Spindle fibers pull chromatids to opposite sides of the cell. Signup and view all the answers

What is the total number of chromosomes present in a human somatic cell?

46 Signup and view all the answers

Which term describes cells that contain two sets of chromosomes?

Diploid cells Signup and view all the answers

During the binary fission process in prokaryotes, what happens to the DNA?

It replicates and attaches to the cell membrane. Signup and view all the answers

How many autosomes do humans have in each diploid cell?

44 Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes meiosis from mitosis in terms of the genetic composition of daughter cells?

Daughter cells are haploid and genetically different from parent cells Signup and view all the answers

What type of cells are characterized by having only one set of chromosomes?

Haploid cells Signup and view all the answers

During which phase of the cell cycle do cells actively replicate their DNA?

S phase Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the G2 checkpoint in the cell cycle?

To ensure DNA replication has successfully occurred Signup and view all the answers

Which phase in the cell cycle is characterized by cells not actively dividing?

G0 phase Signup and view all the answers

Which sequence correctly outlines the stages of mitosis?

Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a malignant tumor from a benign tumor?

Malignant tumors invade and destroy surrounding healthy tissue. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a potential cause of cancer as outlined in the content?

Frequent physical activity Signup and view all the answers

In what way does meiosis contribute to genetic diversity?

Through crossing over and independent assortment. Signup and view all the answers

During which phase of meiosis does DNA coil into chromosomes and spindle fibers begin to form?

Prophase I Signup and view all the answers

How many daughter cells are produced at the end of meiosis and what is their genetic status?

4 genetically different haploid cells Signup and view all the answers

How do animal cells achieve cytokinesis?

The cell membrane pinches inward forming a cleavage furrow. Signup and view all the answers

What role do cyclins play in the cell cycle?

They signal cells when to divide. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes apoptosis?

It is a programmed process leading to intentional cell death. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes cancer cells in comparison to normal cells?

Cancer cells do not respond to growth regulatory signals. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of stem cells in biological systems?

They differentiate into specialized cell types. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key distinction in the genetic makeup of cells resulting from meiosis compared to those from mitosis?

Meiosis generates genetically diverse cells while mitosis results in genetically identical cells. Signup and view all the answers

How do the processes of PMAT I and PMAT II differ in meiosis?

PMAT I separates homologous chromosomes, whereas PMAT II separates sister chromatids. Signup and view all the answers

What is the chromosomal composition of human gametes at the end of meiosis?

Gametes are produced with 23 chromosomes each. Signup and view all the answers

What crucial step does not occur before the start of meiosis II?

DNA replication takes place. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately reflects a similarity between mitosis and meiosis?

Both processes include similar stages, such as prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of meiosis in organisms?

To produce genetically diverse haploid cells Signup and view all the answers

During which stage of meiosis does crossing over occur?