What is the purpose of the cell cycle? — The cell cycle allows cells to grow, replicate their DNA, and divide to produce new cells.
What is mitosis? — Mitosis is the process of nuclear division that produces two genetically identical daughter cells.
What is the primary purpose of mitosis? — Mitosis supports growth, tissue repair, and asexual reproduction.
How many daughter cells are produced by mitosis? — Two daughter cells.
What is meiosis? — Meiosis is a specialized type of cell division that produces haploid gametes for sexual reproduction.
How many daughter cells are produced by meiosis? — Four daughter cells.
What is the chromosome number of cells produced by meiosis? — They are haploid, containing half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.
What happens during interphase before cell division? — The cell grows, performs normal functions, and replicates its DNA.
What occurs during prophase of mitosis? — Chromosomes condense, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and the spindle apparatus begins to form.
What happens during metaphase of mitosis? — Chromosomes align at the cell's equator (metaphase plate).
What occurs during anaphase of mitosis? — Sister chromatids separate and move toward opposite poles of the cell.
What happens during telophase of mitosis? — New nuclear envelopes form around each set of chromosomes, and the chromosomes begin to decondense.
What is cytokinesis? — Cytokinesis is the division of the cytoplasm that separates one cell into two daughter cells.
What is the main purpose of meiosis I? — Meiosis I separates homologous chromosomes, reducing the chromosome number by half.
What is the main purpose of meiosis II? — Meiosis II separates sister chromatids into individual cells.
What is crossing over? — Crossing over is the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during prophase I of meiosis.
Why is crossing over important? — It increases genetic variation among offspring.
What is independent assortment? — Independent assortment is the random distribution of homologous chromosome pairs into gametes during meiosis I.
What is the main difference between mitosis and meiosis? — Mitosis produces two genetically identical diploid cells, while meiosis produces four genetically diverse haploid cells.
Why is meiosis essential for sexual reproduction? — It produces haploid gametes, ensuring the chromosome number is restored when fertilization occurs.
