Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main purpose of the cell cycle in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

To ensure accurate duplication and distribution of genetic material

Question 2

During which phase of the cell cycle does active gene expression and cell growth occur before DNA replication?

Accepted Answer

$G_1$

Question 3

A cell in the $S$ phase of interphase has just completed DNA replication. Which of the following statements is correct?

Accepted Answer

Each chromosome now consists of two identical sister chromatids joined at the centromere

Question 4

Which of the following is true about a dyad?

Accepted Answer

A dyad contains two DNA molecules but is still considered one chromosome

Question 5

If a diploid cell in $G_2$ has $2n = 4$ and $4c$ DNA content, what does this mean?

Accepted Answer

The cell has the same chromosome number but twice the amount of DNA

Question 6

Which of the following statements about interphase is correct?

Accepted Answer

DNA exists as uncoiled chromatin, not condensed chromosomes

Question 7

Which two processes occur during $M$ phase to complete cell division?

Accepted Answer

Karyokinesis and cytokinesis

Question 8

Why are karyotypes always shown after $S$ phase in the cell cycle?

Accepted Answer

Chromosomes are only visible once they have replicated and condensed

Question 9

Which of the following best describes homologous chromosomes?

Accepted Answer

A matching pair of chromosomes, one from each parent, that carry the same genes but may have different alleles

Question 10

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

Accepted Answer

$S$ phase

Question 11

Which of the following is FALSE regarding interphase?

Accepted Answer

Chromosomes are visible under a light microscope as distinct X-shaped structures

Question 12

A scientist observes a cell with uncoiled chromatin and no visible chromosomes. In which phase is this cell most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

Interphase

Question 13

Which of the following best explains why the cell cycle is tightly regulated?

Accepted Answer

To ensure accurate duplication and distribution of genetic material

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct statement about sister chromatids?

Accepted Answer

They are identical copies of a single chromosome formed after DNA replication

Question 15

A human skin cell in $G_1$ phase has 46 chromosomes. After $S$ phase, how many chromosomes and DNA molecules does it have?

Accepted Answer

46 chromosomes and 92 DNA molecules

Question 16

Which phase of the cell cycle is characterized by the duplication of organelles and the beginning of spindle microtubule formation?

Accepted Answer

$G_2$ phase

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the $G_0$ phase?

Accepted Answer

A resting or nondividing state within the cell cycle

Question 18

Which of the following is a real-world application of understanding the cell cycle?

Accepted Answer

Cancer research, as uncontrolled cell division is a hallmark of cancer

Overview of the Eukaryotic Cell Cycle: Structure, Phases, and Chromosome Organization

Study Guide - Practice Questions