Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main difference between cell division in prokaryotes and eukaryotes?

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotes segregate DNA replication, cell growth, and division into distinct phases, while prokaryotes do not.

Question 2

What is the primary role of the FtsZ protein in bacterial cell division?

Accepted Answer

It forms a dynamic ring (Z-ring) at the future site of division, recruiting proteins for septum formation.

Question 3

A temperature-sensitive G105S mutation in the GTP binding site of Staphylococcus aureus FtsZ results in which of the following outcomes at non-permissive temperatures?

Accepted Answer

Cells fail to form a functional Z-ring, leading to filamentous, non-dividing cells.

Question 4

Which mechanism(s) contribute to genetic variation in prokaryotic populations, despite asexual reproduction?

Accepted Answer

Horizontal gene transfer and random genetic mutations

Question 5

During which phase of the eukaryotic cell cycle does DNA replication occur?

Accepted Answer

S phase

Question 6

Which of the following best explains why duplicated sister chromatids do not separate until M phase?

Accepted Answer

Cohesin proteins hold sister chromatids together until the mitotic spindle attaches and pulls them apart during anaphase.

Question 7

What is the function of the microtubule organizing center (MTOC) in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

It organizes microtubule fibers, especially during mitosis, to form the mitotic spindle.

Question 8

Which of the following events occurs during prophase of mitosis?

Accepted Answer

Duplicated centrosomes migrate to opposite poles and chromatin condenses.

Question 9

Why is condensation of DNA into compact chromosomes necessary during M phase?

Accepted Answer

It allows for the accurate transmission of genetic information to daughter cells.

Question 10

Which checkpoint ensures that all chromosomes are correctly attached to the mitotic spindle before the cell enters anaphase?

Accepted Answer

Metaphase (spindle assembly) checkpoint

Question 11

What is the main difference in cytokinesis between plant and animal cells?

Accepted Answer

Animal cells form a cleavage furrow, while plant cells form a cell plate.

Question 12

Which of the following is a consequence of Z-ring mislocalization in bacteria?

Accepted Answer

Cell division occurs at the poles, leading to nonviable daughter cells.

Question 13

Which phase of the eukaryotic cell cycle is characterized by the assembly of mature kinetochores on centromeric DNA?

Accepted Answer

G2/M transition

Question 14

A mutation in the Min protein system of bacteria would most likely result in which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Mislocalized Z-ring assembly, leading to abnormal cell division

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the role of centrosomes during mitosis?

Accepted Answer

They organize the mitotic spindle, which separates chromosomes during cell division.

Question 16

Which of the following is NOT a key feature of binary fission in prokaryotes?

Accepted Answer

It involves a mitotic spindle.

Question 17

Which of the following is a real-world consequence of errors during anaphase in mitosis?

Accepted Answer

Aneuploidy, which can lead to genetic disorders such as Down syndrome.

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why mitochondria and chloroplasts divide by binary fission in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

They are derived from prokaryotic ancestors and retain prokaryotic division mechanisms.

Question 19

Which of the following is a multi-step process that occurs during the eukaryotic cell cycle?

Accepted Answer

Growth, DNA replication, centrosome duplication, and mitosis

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the biological significance of cell division in multicellular organisms?

Accepted Answer

It is essential for tissue growth, homeostasis, repair, and reproduction.

Cell Division: Mechanisms in Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes

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