Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

It mixes genetic information from two parents, increasing genetic diversity.

Question 2

In humans, what is the diploid number of chromosomes, and how is it represented in terms of $n$?

Accepted Answer

46 chromosomes; $2n = 46$ where $n = 23$

Question 3

Which statement correctly describes homologous chromosomes?

Accepted Answer

They carry the same genes in the same order but may have different alleles.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

S phase

Question 5

A cell with 2 sets of homologous chromosomes is described as:

Accepted Answer

Diploid ($2n$)

Question 6

Which of the following is true about the X and Y chromosomes in humans?

Accepted Answer

They determine the gender of the individual.

Question 7

If a human cell undergoes mitosis, how many chromosomes will each daughter cell contain?

Accepted Answer

46 chromosomes

Question 8

Which process is responsible for producing haploid gametes in humans?

Accepted Answer

Meiosis

Question 9

What is the main difference between asexual and sexual reproduction in terms of genetic outcome?

Accepted Answer

Asexual reproduction produces genetically identical offspring, while sexual reproduction increases genetic diversity.

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the karyotype of a typical human female?

Accepted Answer

46 chromosomes, including two X chromosomes

Question 11

If a cell has completed DNA replication but has not yet divided, what is the state of its chromosomes?

Accepted Answer

Each chromosome consists of two identical sister chromatids.

Question 12

Which of the following is a correct real-world application of understanding homologous chromosomes?

Accepted Answer

Analyzing genetic disorders caused by mutations in specific alleles.

Question 13

A scientist observes a cell with chromosomes aligned at the metaphase plate. Which stage of mitosis is this?

Accepted Answer

Metaphase

Question 14

Which of the following scenarios would most likely result in increased genetic diversity in a population?

Accepted Answer

A population reproducing by meiosis and fertilization.

Question 15

If a cell contains only one set of chromosomes, it is described as:

Accepted Answer

Haploid ($n$)

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the relationship between alleles and homologous chromosomes?

Accepted Answer

Each homologous chromosome may carry a different allele for the same gene.

Question 17

A karyotype analysis reveals a cell with 46 chromosomes, including one X and one Y chromosome. What is the gender of the individual?

Accepted Answer

Male

Question 18

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

Accepted Answer

Production of haploid gametes

Question 19

Which of the following statements about meiosis is correct?

Accepted Answer

Meiosis occurs only during gamete production.

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the genetic relationship between sister chromatids and homologous chromosomes?

Accepted Answer

Sister chromatids are more genetically similar to each other than homologous chromosomes.

The Cell Cycle and Mitosis: Key Concepts and Mechanisms

Study Guide - Practice Questions