Question 1

During the S phase of interphase, what key event occurs in preparation for cell division?

Accepted Answer

Replication of DNA

Question 2

Which structure is responsible for attaching chromosomes to the spindle microtubules during mitosis?

Accepted Answer

Kinetochore

Question 3

What is the primary event that signals the start of anaphase in mitosis?

Accepted Answer

Centromeres split and sister chromatids are pulled apart

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Cleavage furrow

Question 5

Which checkpoint in the cell cycle ensures that all chromosomes are properly attached to the spindle before proceeding?

Accepted Answer

Spindle (late metaphase) checkpoint

Question 6

A mutation in which type of gene can lead to uncontrolled cell division and cancer, even if only one copy is mutated?

Accepted Answer

Proto-oncogene

Question 7

What is the difference between diploid and haploid cells in humans?

Accepted Answer

Diploid cells have two sets of chromosomes, haploid cells have one set

Question 8

During prophase of mitosis, which of the following events occurs?

Accepted Answer

Spindle apparatus assembles and chromosomes condense

Question 9

Which protein is responsible for holding sister chromatids together after DNA replication?

Accepted Answer

Cohesin

Question 10

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

Accepted Answer

Cell plate

Question 11

Which phase of the cell cycle is characterized by the replication of DNA?

Accepted Answer

S phase

Question 12

What is the function of the p53 gene in the cell cycle?

Accepted Answer

Acts as a tumor-suppressor by halting the cell cycle if DNA is damaged

Question 13

Which event occurs during telophase of mitosis?

Accepted Answer

Nuclear envelope reforms around each set of chromosomes

Question 14

What is the primary mechanism by which bacteria divide?

Accepted Answer

Binary fission

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the metaphase plate?

Accepted Answer

An imaginary plane where chromosomes align during metaphase

Question 16

If a cell fails to pass the G2/M checkpoint, what is the most likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

The cell cycle will halt and the cell will not enter mitosis

Question 17

Which equation correctly represents the number of chromosomes in a diploid human cell?

Accepted Answer

$$2n = 46$$

Question 18

A cell spends most of its time in which phase of the cell cycle?

Accepted Answer

Interphase

Question 19

Which of the following is a real-world consequence of a mutation in the retinoblastoma (Rb) gene?

Accepted Answer

Predisposition to a rare form of eye cancer

Question 20

During binary fission in bacteria, what is the role of the septum?

Accepted Answer

It divides the cell into two daughter cells

Cell Division: Mitosis, Cell Cycle, and Cancer

Study Guide - Practice Questions