Question 1

Which process is depicted in the first image, and what is its biological significance?

Accepted Answer

Binary fission; it allows prokaryotes to reproduce rapidly and maintain genetic consistency.

Question 2

During binary fission in prokaryotes, what is the correct sequence of events?

Accepted Answer

Chromosome duplication, cell elongation, separation into two daughter cells.

Question 3

What is the main structural difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic chromosomes?

Accepted Answer

Prokaryotic chromosomes are circular and lack a nucleus; eukaryotic chromosomes are linear and located in the nucleus.

Question 4

Which phase of the eukaryotic cell cycle is characterized by DNA synthesis?

Accepted Answer

S phase

Question 5

What is the function of the mitotic spindle during mitosis?

Accepted Answer

To organize and separate chromosomes into daughter cells

Question 6

How does cytokinesis differ between animal and plant cells?

Accepted Answer

Animal cells form a cleavage furrow; plant cells form a cell plate.

Question 7

Which event occurs during prophase of mitosis?

Accepted Answer

Chromosomes condense and the mitotic spindle begins to form.

Question 8

What is the result of nondisjunction during meiosis?

Accepted Answer

Some gametes have an abnormal number of chromosomes, such as $$n+1 or$$ $$n-1.$$

Question 9

A human cell with 47 chromosomes, including three copies of chromosome 21, is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Down syndrome (Trisomy 21)

Question 10

Which process increases genetic variation during meiosis?

Accepted Answer

Crossing over between nonsister chromatids

Question 11

What is the formula for the number of possible chromosome combinations due to independent assortment in gametes, where $$n is $$the haploid number?

Accepted Answer

$$2^n$$

Question 12

Which chromosomal alteration is correctly matched with its description?

Accepted Answer

Inversion: reversal of a chromosome segment

Question 13

Why is cancer not usually inherited?

Accepted Answer

Most cancer-causing mutations occur in somatic cells, not gametes.

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the difference between somatic cells and gametes in humans?

Accepted Answer

Somatic cells are diploid; gametes are haploid.

Question 15

What is the role of checkpoints in the cell cycle?

Accepted Answer

They ensure the cell cycle proceeds without errors by stopping or signaling events to proceed.

Question 16

Which syndrome is associated with the XO sex chromosome composition?

Accepted Answer

Turner syndrome

Question 17

What is a karyotype used for?

Accepted Answer

To observe the arrangement, number, and structure of chromosomes in an individual.

Question 18

Which event distinguishes meiosis I from mitosis?

Accepted Answer

Separation of homologous chromosomes

Question 19

How can errors in cell division lead to the formation of new species, especially in plants?

Accepted Answer

By producing polyploid individuals with more than two sets of chromosomes

Question 20

Which of the following is NOT a function of mitosis in multicellular organisms?

Accepted Answer

Production of gametes

Cell Division and Reproduction: Mitosis, Meiosis, and Chromosomal Alterations

Study Guide - Practice Questions