Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference between somatic cells and germ-line cells in humans?

Accepted Answer

Somatic cells make up most of the body and are diploid, while germ-line cells give rise to gametes (egg and sperm).

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

S phase

Question 3

A human cell with 46 chromosomes undergoes mitosis. How many chromosomes will each daughter cell have after cytokinesis?

Accepted Answer

$$46$$

Question 4

Which of the following events increases genetic variability during meiosis?

Accepted Answer

Crossing over between homologous chromosomes during prophase I

Question 5

If a diploid organism has a haploid number $$n = 4$$, how many possible combinations of chromosomes can be produced by independent assortment during meiosis?

Accepted Answer

$$2^4 = 16$

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

M (metaphase) checkpoint

Question 7

A mutation in the p53 gene can lead to cancer because:

Accepted Answer

It prevents the repair of damaged DNA and the initiation of apoptosis.

Question 8

Which of the following is a key difference between mitosis and meiosis?

Accepted Answer

Mitosis produces two diploid cells, while meiosis produces four haploid cells.

Question 9

Which of the following best explains why sexual reproduction is advantageous in changing environments?

Accepted Answer

It increases genetic variation, allowing for adaptation through natural selection.

Question 10

During which phase of mitosis do sister chromatids separate and move toward opposite poles of the cell?

Accepted Answer

Anaphase

Question 11

A researcher observes a cell with homologous chromosomes paired and crossing over occurring. Which stage is the cell in?

Accepted Answer

Prophase I of meiosis

Question 12

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

Accepted Answer

Production of gametes

Question 13

If a cell fails the G2 checkpoint, what is the most likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

The cell will attempt to repair DNA damage before proceeding.

Question 14

Which of the following statements about homologous chromosomes is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

They carry the same genes but may have different alleles.

Question 15

A patient is diagnosed with a tumor that is rapidly growing and invading surrounding tissues. Which term best describes this tumor?

Accepted Answer

Malignant

Question 16

Which process is responsible for the formation of genetically identical daughter cells?

Accepted Answer

Mitosis

Question 17

In a population of plants, which method of reproduction would be more likely to allow survival during a sudden disease outbreak?

Accepted Answer

Sexual reproduction

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the outcome of meiosis II?

Accepted Answer

Separation of sister chromatids into four haploid cells

Question 19

Which of the following mechanisms does NOT contribute to genetic variation in sexually reproducing organisms?

Accepted Answer

Replication of DNA during S phase

Question 20

A cell with a defective spindle assembly checkpoint proceeds through mitosis. What is a likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

The cell may end up with an abnormal number of chromosomes (aneuploidy).

The Cell Cycle: Mitosis and Meiosis – Structure, Function, and Genetic Variability

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards