In a typical mitotic division of a single somatic cell, how many cells are present at the beginning of mitosis (prophase)?

• A. 1 cell
• B. 2 cells
• C. 8 cells
• D. 4 cells

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that mitosis is the process by which a single somatic cell divides to produce two genetically identical daughter cells.
2. Understand that mitosis begins with one parent cell entering prophase, the first stage of mitosis.
3. At the beginning of prophase, the cell has already duplicated its DNA during the S phase of interphase, but it is still a single cell.
4. Therefore, the number of cells present at the beginning of mitosis (prophase) is the original single cell preparing to divide.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is 1 cell, as mitosis starts with one cell that will eventually divide into two.