The role of mitosis is not merely to divide a cell into two daughter c...
All the daughter cells of multicellular organism have the same number and type of chromosomes as parent cells due to equitable distribution of all chromosomes in mitosis. This helps in ensuring genetic continuity.
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The role of mitosis is not merely to divide a cell into two daughter c...
Explanation:
Mitosis is a process of cell division in which a single cell divides into two identical daughter cells, each containing the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell. The role of mitosis is not merely to divide a cell into two daughter cells but to ensure genetic continuity from one cell generation to another cell generation. The mechanism ensuring genetic continuity is the formation of two cells with identical DNA.
Importance of genetic continuity:
Genetic continuity is essential for the survival of a species. Without genetic continuity, each new generation of cells would be different from the previous generation, leading to genetic diversity and the loss of important traits. Mitosis ensures genetic continuity by producing two daughter cells that are identical to the parent cell.
Role of mitosis in ensuring genetic continuity:
During mitosis, the genetic material of the parent cell is replicated and then divided equally between the two daughter cells. This ensures that each daughter cell has the same genetic information as the parent cell, ensuring genetic continuity.
The process of mitosis:
The process of mitosis can be divided into four main stages:
1. Prophase: During this stage, the chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, and the nuclear envelope breaks down.
2. Metaphase: During this stage, the chromosomes line up along the equator of the cell, and the spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes.
3. Anaphase: During this stage, the spindle fibers pull the sister chromatids apart, and the chromosomes move towards opposite poles of the cell.
4. Telophase: During this stage, the chromosomes reach the poles of the cell, and the nuclear envelope reforms around each set of chromosomes.
Cytokinesis:
After the completion of mitosis, the cell undergoes cytokinesis, in which the cytoplasm divides, and two daughter cells are formed. Each daughter cell has the same genetic information as the parent cell, ensuring genetic continuity.