Question 1

Which phase of the cell cycle is primarily responsible for DNA replication, and what is the main event that occurs during this phase?

Accepted Answer

S phase; duplication of each chromosome into two sister chromatids ($$DNA \ replication)$$

Question 2

During which stage of mitosis do the chromosomes align along the equator of the cell, and what is the significance of this arrangement?

Accepted Answer

Metaphase; it ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes

Question 3

If a diploid cell in a human (with $$2n = 46$$ chromosomes) undergoes mitosis, how many chromosomes will each daughter cell contain after cytokinesis?

Accepted Answer

$$46$$

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the difference between mitosis and meiosis in terms of genetic diversity?

Accepted Answer

Mitosis produces genetically identical cells, while meiosis introduces genetic variation through crossing over and independent assortment.

Question 5

A researcher observes onion root tip cells and notes that most cells are in interphase. What does this suggest about the duration of interphase compared to mitosis?

Accepted Answer

Interphase is longer than mitosis.

Question 6

During meiosis I, homologous chromosomes pair and exchange genetic material. What is the name of this process, and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

Crossing over; it increases genetic variation among gametes

Question 7

In human males, spermatogenesis results in the formation of sperm cells. How many functional sperm cells are produced from one primary spermatocyte after meiosis?

Accepted Answer

Four

Question 8

Which structure is responsible for attaching spindle fibers to chromosomes during cell division?

Accepted Answer

Centromere

Question 9

A cell with a diploid number of $$2n = 8$$ undergoes meiosis. After meiosis II, how many chromosomes will each gamete contain?

Accepted Answer

$$4$$

Question 10

Which event occurs during anaphase of mitosis?

Accepted Answer

Sister chromatids are pulled apart toward opposite poles of the cell

Question 11

In plant cells, what structure forms during cytokinesis to separate the two daughter cells?

Accepted Answer

Cell plate

Question 12

Which phase of meiosis is responsible for the separation of homologous chromosomes?

Accepted Answer

Anaphase I

Question 13

A genetic disorder is caused by a translocation between chromosomes 21 and 14. Which syndrome is most likely associated with this chromosomal abnormality?

Accepted Answer

Down syndrome

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why gametes are haploid?

Accepted Answer

They are produced by meiosis, which reduces the chromosome number by half to prevent doubling during fertilization

Question 15

During which stage of the cell cycle do cells spend most of their time, and what is the primary activity during this stage?

Accepted Answer

Interphase; growth and normal metabolic roles

Question 16

If a mutation prevents the formation of spindle fibers during mitosis, which process would be directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Alignment of chromosomes at the metaphase plate

Question 17

Which of the following is a direct result of crossing over during meiosis?

Accepted Answer

Increased genetic variation in gametes

Question 18

A cell in metaphase of mitosis is treated with a drug that prevents microtubule formation. What is the most likely outcome?

Accepted Answer

Sister chromatids will not separate

Question 19

Which process ensures that each daughter cell receives the correct number of chromosomes during cell division?

Accepted Answer

Spindle fiber attachment to centromeres

Question 20

In oogenesis, why is only one functional ovum produced from each primary oocyte?

Accepted Answer

Because cytoplasm is unevenly divided, resulting in one large ovum and smaller polar bodies

Cell Division: Mitosis and Meiosis – Study Notes

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