Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference between gametes and somatic cells in terms of chromosome number?

Accepted Answer

Gametes are haploid (n) while somatic cells are diploid (2n).

Question 2

During which phase of the cell cycle does chromosome replication occur?

Accepted Answer

S phase

Question 3

If a human somatic cell contains 46 chromosomes, how many chromosomes will each daughter cell have after mitosis?

Accepted Answer

46 chromosomes

Question 4

Which of the following statements about homologous chromosomes is correct?

Accepted Answer

They are a pair of chromosomes, one from each parent, that are similar in length, centromere position, and gene content.

Question 5

During anaphase of mitosis, what event occurs?

Accepted Answer

Sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles.

Question 6

Which equation correctly represents the chromosome number in a human zygote after fertilization?

Accepted Answer

$$n + n = 2n$$

Question 7

What is the main purpose of meiosis in gamete formation?

Accepted Answer

To reduce the chromosome number by half, creating haploid gametes.

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the difference between autosomal and sex chromosomes?

Accepted Answer

Autosomal chromosomes are pairs 1-22, while sex chromosomes are pair 23.

Question 9

A cell in G$$_0$$ phase is characterized by which of the following?

Accepted Answer

It has exited the cell cycle and does not divide again.

Question 10

During metaphase I of meiosis, what is the arrangement of chromosomes?

Accepted Answer

Tetrads (homologous pairs) line up at the equator.

Question 11

If nondisjunction occurs during meiosis II, what is the likely outcome?

Accepted Answer

Some gametes will have an extra chromosome, and some will have one less.

Question 12

Which structure is the site of attachment for spindle microtubules during cell division?

Accepted Answer

Kinetochore

Question 13

A patient’s karyotype shows 47 chromosomes due to an extra chromosome 21. Which process most likely failed during gamete formation?

Accepted Answer

Proper separation of homologous chromosomes during meiosis I

Question 14

Which phase of mitosis is characterized by chromosomes condensing and the nuclear envelope breaking down?

Accepted Answer

Prophase

Question 15

How many autosomal chromosome pairs are present in a human somatic cell?

Accepted Answer

22 pairs

Question 16

Which of the following best explains why meiosis is necessary for sexual reproduction?

Accepted Answer

It reduces the chromosome number in gametes so that fertilization restores the diploid number.

Question 17

During which stage of mitosis do spindle microtubules pull sister chromatids apart?

Accepted Answer

Anaphase

Question 18

Which of the following is true regarding cytokinesis?

Accepted Answer

It is the division of the cytoplasm following nuclear division.

Question 19

A cell with 46 chromosomes undergoes meiosis. How many chromosomes will each resulting gamete contain?

Accepted Answer

23 chromosomes

Question 20

Which of the following events occurs ONLY during meiosis and not mitosis?

Accepted Answer

Pairing of homologous chromosomes to form tetrads

Chromosome Content, Cell Cycle, Mitosis, and Meiosis: Study Notes for Anatomy & Physiology

Study Guide - Practice Questions