Which of the following images best represents cytokinesis in an animal cell?

• A. An image showing a cell with a cleavage furrow forming between two daughter nuclei.
• B. An image showing chromosomes condensing and becoming visible.
• C. An image showing chromosomes aligned at the metaphase plate.
• D. An image showing the nuclear envelope breaking down and spindle fibers forming.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of cytokinesis: Cytokinesis is the process during cell division where the cytoplasm of a parent cell is divided into two daughter cells. In animal cells, this involves the formation of a cleavage furrow.
2. Recall the key feature of cytokinesis in animal cells: A cleavage furrow forms as the cell membrane pinches inward, separating the two daughter nuclei into distinct cells.
3. Analyze the options provided: Look for the image that depicts a cell with a visible cleavage furrow forming between two daughter nuclei. This is the hallmark of cytokinesis in animal cells.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: Discard images showing chromosomes condensing (prophase), chromosomes aligned at the metaphase plate (metaphase), or the nuclear envelope breaking down with spindle fibers forming (prophase). These represent earlier stages of mitosis, not cytokinesis.
5. Select the correct image: Choose the image that clearly shows the cleavage furrow forming, as this best represents cytokinesis in an animal cell.