What is the result when a single cell reproduces by mitosis?

• A. Two daughter cells with half the original chromosome number
• B. Two genetically identical daughter cells
• C. Four genetically unique daughter cells
• D. One cell with twice the original number of chromosomes

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process of mitosis: Mitosis is a type of cell division that results in two daughter cells, each having the same number and type of chromosomes as the parent cell. It is essential for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction in multicellular organisms.
2. Recognize the key feature of mitosis: During mitosis, the genetic material (DNA) is duplicated and evenly distributed to ensure that each daughter cell is genetically identical to the parent cell.
3. Clarify the chromosome number: In mitosis, the chromosome number remains constant. If the parent cell is diploid (2n), the daughter cells will also be diploid (2n). There is no halving or doubling of chromosome numbers in this process.
4. Compare mitosis to other processes: Mitosis differs from meiosis, which produces four genetically unique daughter cells with half the chromosome number of the parent cell. This distinction helps eliminate incorrect answer choices.
5. Conclude the result of mitosis: The correct answer is 'Two genetically identical daughter cells,' as mitosis ensures the preservation of genetic information and chromosome number in the daughter cells.