Cell Division Overview Quiz

Cell Division Overview

• Mitosis produces two genetically identical daughter cells, each with the same chromosome number as the parent cell.
• Meiosis generates four genetically diverse daughter cells, each with half the chromosome number of the parent cell.
• Mitosis occurs in somatic (body) cells; meiosis occurs in gamete (reproductive) cells.

Stages of Mitosis

• Prophase

  • Chromosomes condense and coil.
  • Nuclear envelope breaks down.
  • Spindle fibers start forming.

• Metaphase

  • Chromosomes align at the cell's equator.
  • Spindle fibers attach to chromosomes at the centromeres.

• Anaphase

  • Sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles.

• Telophase

  • Chromosomes decondense and uncoil.
  • Nuclear envelopes reform around each set of chromosomes.
  • Spindle fibers disassemble.

Stages of Meiosis

• Meiosis I

  • Homologous chromosomes separate, leading to two cells with half the chromosome number.

• Meiosis II

  • Sister chromatids separate, resulting in a total of four haploid cells.

Key Differences

• Mitosis is a single division resulting in two cells; meiosis involves two divisions resulting in four cells.
• Mitosis maintains chromosome number; meiosis halves chromosome number, promoting genetic diversity.

Significance of Mitosis

• Critical for growth and development of an organism.
• Aids in the repair and replacement of damaged cells.
• Used in asexual reproduction processes.

Importance of Meiosis

• Facilitates sexual reproduction in diploid organisms.
• Promotes genetic variation through independent assortment and crossing over.
• Assists in repairing genetic defects via genetic exchange.

Common Errors in Cell Division

• Cell division is not a flawless process; errors can lead to issues such as cancer.

Assessment Questions

• Key terms associated with cell division:
  • Cell cycle refers to the series of changes a cell undergoes from formation to division.
  • Karyokinesis is the division of the nucleus.
  • Chromatin refers to long, thread-like DNA in non-dividing cells.
  • Somatic cells are body cells.
  • Interphase is the resting stage before mitosis.

Characteristics of Plant vs Animal Cells in Mitosis

• Plant cells form a cell plate during cytokinesis, while animal cells undergo cleavage furrow formation.

Cancer and Cell Division

• Cancer occurs when cells undergo uncontrolled growth and can spread to other body parts.
• Mitosis applications exclude the production of gametes, which is a function of meiosis.