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Multiple Choice
Which process allows an organism to increase the number of body cells during development?
A
Binary fission
B
Meiosis
C
Fertilization
D
Mitosis
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the question: The problem is asking which process is responsible for increasing the number of body cells during development. This involves cell division and growth.
Review the options: Binary fission is a form of asexual reproduction in prokaryotes, meiosis is a type of cell division that produces gametes (sex cells), and fertilization is the fusion of gametes to form a zygote. Mitosis is the process of cell division that results in two identical daughter cells, used for growth and repair in multicellular organisms.
Clarify the concept of mitosis: Mitosis is a type of cell division that occurs in somatic (body) cells. It involves one parent cell dividing into two genetically identical daughter cells, ensuring the organism can grow and replace damaged or old cells.
Explain the role of mitosis in development: During development, mitosis allows an organism to increase its number of body cells by replicating its DNA and dividing the nucleus and cytoplasm. This process is essential for growth and tissue formation.
Conclude the reasoning: Based on the explanation, mitosis is the correct process that allows an organism to increase the number of body cells during development. The other options do not serve this function in multicellular organisms.