What is cell division, and how does it differ in unicellular and multicellular organisms?
Understand the Problem
The question is discussing the process of cell division, including its importance, phases, differences between unicellular and multicellular organisms, and the implications for growth and repair. It emphasizes the mechanisms of mitosis and meiosis as well as the regulation of the cell cycle, relating this knowledge to cancer and evolutionary concepts.
Answer
In unicellular organisms, cell division is for reproduction, while in multicellular it is for growth and repair.
Cell division is the process by which a single cell divides into two or more daughter cells. In unicellular organisms, it is primarily for reproduction, creating a new organism from each division. In multicellular organisms, cell division is mainly for growth, repair, and maintaining tissues.
Answer for screen readers
Cell division is the process by which a single cell divides into two or more daughter cells. In unicellular organisms, it is primarily for reproduction, creating a new organism from each division. In multicellular organisms, cell division is mainly for growth, repair, and maintaining tissues.
More Information
Cell division in unicellular organisms includes processes like binary fission in bacteria. In multicellular organisms, it includes both mitosis and meiosis, with mitosis for body cells and meiosis for gametes.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming both organisms use cell division for the same purpose. Remember that reproduction is the sole purpose in unicellular organisms.
Sources
- How is cell division is important to unicellular and multicellular ... - byjus.com
- 10.1A: The Role of the Cell Cycle - Biology LibreTexts - bio.libretexts.org
- Cell - Mitosis, Cytokinesis, Prokaryotes | Britannica - britannica.com