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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is true in both mitosis and meiosis?
A
Both processes result in the formation of diploid cells.
B
Both processes involve the separation of sister chromatids.
C
Both processes occur only in reproductive cells.
D
Both processes result in genetic variation among daughter cells.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the basic definitions: Mitosis is a type of cell division that results in two daughter cells each having the same number and kind of chromosomes as the parent nucleus, typical of ordinary tissue growth. Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating four haploid cells, each genetically distinct from the parent cell, typical of sexual reproduction.
Identify the key phases in both processes: In mitosis, the phases are prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. In meiosis, there are two rounds of division, meiosis I and meiosis II, each with similar phases to mitosis.
Focus on the separation of sister chromatids: In both mitosis and meiosis II, sister chromatids are separated. This is a critical step where the duplicated chromosomes are pulled apart to opposite ends of the cell.
Consider the context of cell types: Mitosis occurs in somatic (non-reproductive) cells, while meiosis occurs in germ (reproductive) cells. This distinction helps eliminate options that suggest both occur only in reproductive cells.
Evaluate genetic variation: Mitosis results in genetically identical cells, while meiosis results in genetic variation due to crossing over and independent assortment. This helps eliminate options suggesting both result in genetic variation.