How is mitosis different from cytokinesis?

• A. Mitosis is the division of the nucleus, while cytokinesis is the division of the cytoplasm.
• B. Mitosis occurs only in somatic cells, while cytokinesis occurs only in germ cells.
• C. Mitosis involves the replication of DNA, while cytokinesis involves the replication of organelles.
• D. Mitosis results in four daughter cells, while cytokinesis results in two daughter cells.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions: Mitosis is the process of nuclear division in eukaryotic cells that results in two genetically identical daughter nuclei. Cytokinesis is the process that divides the cytoplasm of a parental cell into two daughter cells.
2. Identify the sequence of events: Mitosis consists of several stages (prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase) that lead to the division of the nucleus. Cytokinesis typically follows mitosis and completes the cell division process by splitting the cytoplasm.
3. Clarify the cell types involved: Mitosis occurs in somatic cells, which are any cells forming the body of an organism, excluding germ cells. Cytokinesis occurs in all types of cells, including both somatic and germ cells, as it is the final step in cell division.
4. Differentiate the outcomes: Mitosis results in two daughter nuclei, each with the same number of chromosomes as the parent nucleus. Cytokinesis results in two separate daughter cells, each containing one of the newly formed nuclei and a share of the cytoplasm and organelles.
5. Correct misconceptions: Mitosis does not result in four daughter cells; it results in two nuclei. Cytokinesis does not involve the replication of organelles; it involves the division of the cytoplasm and distribution of organelles into the two daughter cells.