Which of the following is a function of mitosis in humans?

• A. Production of eggs
• B. Production of sperm
• C. Decreasing the number of chromosomes
• D. Increasing genetic variability
• E. Multiplication of body cells

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of mitosis: Mitosis is a process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell. It is primarily involved in growth, repair, and maintenance of tissues in multicellular organisms.
2. Identify the functions of mitosis: In humans, mitosis is responsible for the multiplication of body cells, which is essential for growth and repair. It does not produce gametes (eggs or sperm), which are produced by meiosis.
3. Clarify the role of meiosis: Meiosis is the type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half and leads to the production of gametes, increasing genetic variability through recombination and independent assortment.
4. Examine chromosome number: Mitosis maintains the chromosome number of the parent cell, ensuring that each daughter cell has the same number of chromosomes as the original cell. It does not decrease the number of chromosomes.
5. Consider genetic variability: Mitosis does not increase genetic variability; it produces identical cells. Genetic variability is increased through meiosis and sexual reproduction.