Mitosis vs Meiosis Quiz

Why would it be important to replicate DNA before a cell divides in mitosis or meiosis?

• In order for genetic information to be transferred into daughter cells.

• In order for the cell to be able to increase in size.

• In order for the DNA to be contained in the nucleus.

• In order for the cell to re-order the DNA sequencing in the new cells.

Answer explanation

Replicating DNA before a cell divides in mitosis or meiosis is crucial because it ensures that the genetic information is accurately transferred into the daughter cells. This replication allows each new cell to have a complete set of DNA, which is essential for maintaining proper cellular function and inheritance of traits.

The end of mitosis results in  ____ to each other.

• 2 cells that are identical

• 4 cells that are identical

• 2 cells that are not identical

• 4 cells that are not identical

Answer explanation

The end of mitosis results in the formation of two identical daughter cells. This is because the process of mitosis ensures that each daughter cell receives an exact copy of the parent cell's chromosomes, thereby maintaining genetic continuity and identity between the two cells.

The end of meiosis results in  ____ to each other.

• 2 cells that are identical

• 4 cells that are identical

• 2 cells that are not identical

• 4 cells that are not identical

Answer explanation

The end of meiosis results in 4 cells that are not identical to each other. This is because meiosis involves two rounds of cell division, creating four haploid cells with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell. Each cell produced is genetically unique due to the process of crossing over, which increases genetic diversity.

Reorder the phases of mitosis

• Prophase

• Metaphase

• Telophase

• Anaphase

How many mitotic cycles does a germ-line cell in the reproductive organs go through to produce a gamete?

• 1

• 2

• 3

• 4

• 5

Answer explanation

A germ-line cell in the reproductive organs goes through two mitotic cycles to produce a gamete. The first cycle is for growth and differentiation, while the second cycle is for meiosis, which results in the production of haploid gametes. The correct answer is 2 mitotic cycles.

What are chromosomes?

• different versions of genes

• condensed DNA 

• uncoiled DNA

Answer explanation

Chromosomes are structures found in the nucleus of cells, made up of condensed DNA. They contain the genetic information necessary for an organism's growth, development, and reproduction. While different versions of genes and uncoiled DNA are related to genetics, they are not the main constituents of chromosomes. The correct choice is condensed DNA, as chromosomes are primarily composed of this tightly packed genetic material.

The process of crossing over occurs in what phase of meiosis?

• anaphase 1

• prophase 1

• prophase 2

• telophase 1

Answer explanation

The process of crossing over occurs during prophase 1 of meiosis. In this phase, homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material, allowing for the recombination of genes. This genetic shuffling is important for creating diversity among offspring.

This image shows chromosomes during Prophase 1. Which of the following correctly describes the process shown?

• segregation of sister chromatids

• condensation and segregation of alleles

• mutationin which the DNA content of the gene is altered

• crossing - over in which genes are exchanged

Answer explanation

The question asks about chromosomes during Prophase 1, and the correct answer is the process of crossing-over in which genes are exchanged. This is because during Prophase 1 of meiosis, homologous chromosomes undergo recombination, leading to the exchange of genetic material between chromatids. This process increases genetic diversity and ensures proper chromosome segregation.

A chromosome is composed of two identical sister

• centromeres

• chromatids

• autosomes

• somatic cells

Answer explanation

A chromosome is composed of two identical sister chromatids, which are joined together at a region called the centromere. Chromatids are identical copies of a single DNA molecule and associated proteins. This structure ensures accurate distribution of genetic material during cell division.

In which type of cell division does crossing over occur?

• mitosis

• meiosis

• Asexual

• Uncontrolled

Answer explanation

Crossing over occurs during meiosis, which is a type of cell division that results in four daughter cells with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell. This process is vital for sexual reproduction and genetic diversity, as it enables the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes, creating new combinations of genes. Mitosis, asexual, and uncontrolled cell divisions do not involve crossing over.