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AP® biology unit 4 practice test Flashcards

AP® biology unit 4 practice test
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  • What is the role of the cell cycle in multicellular organisms?

    The cell cycle is responsible for growth, repair, and reproduction of cells.
  • Describe the phases of the cell cycle.

    The cell cycle includes interphase (G1, S, G2) and mitotic phase (mitosis and cytokinesis).
  • What occurs during the S phase of the cell cycle?

    DNA replication occurs during the S phase.
  • How do cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) regulate the cell cycle?

    Cyclins bind to CDKs, activating them to regulate progression through the cell cycle.
  • What is the significance of the G1 checkpoint in the cell cycle?

    The G1 checkpoint ensures the cell is ready for DNA synthesis.
  • Explain the process of mitosis.

    Mitosis is the division of a cell's nucleus into two genetically identical nuclei.
  • What is the function of the spindle fibers during mitosis?

    Spindle fibers help separate the chromosomes during mitosis.
  • How does cytokinesis differ in plant and animal cells?

    In animal cells, cytokinesis occurs via cleavage furrow; in plant cells, a cell plate forms.
  • What is apoptosis and why is it important?

    Apoptosis is programmed cell death, crucial for development and maintaining cell health.
  • Describe the role of p53 in the cell cycle.

    p53 is a tumor suppressor protein that regulates the cell cycle and prevents cancer.
  • What is the difference between benign and malignant tumors?

    Benign tumors are non-cancerous and do not spread; malignant tumors are cancerous and can invade other tissues.
  • How do proto-oncogenes and oncogenes relate to cancer?

    Proto-oncogenes promote cell growth; mutations can turn them into oncogenes, leading to cancer.
  • What is the role of telomeres in cell division?

    Telomeres protect chromosome ends and shorten with each cell division, limiting cell lifespan.
  • Explain the concept of contact inhibition.

    Contact inhibition is the cessation of cell division when cells touch each other, preventing overgrowth.
  • What is the significance of the metaphase checkpoint?

    The metaphase checkpoint ensures all chromosomes are properly aligned before anaphase.
  • How does meiosis contribute to genetic diversity?

    Meiosis introduces genetic diversity through crossing over and independent assortment.
  • What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis?

    Mitosis results in two identical cells; meiosis results in four genetically diverse gametes.
  • What is the role of growth factors in the cell cycle?

    Growth factors are proteins that stimulate cell division and survival.
  • How does the environment influence the cell cycle?

    Environmental factors like nutrients and signals can regulate cell cycle progression.
  • What is the function of the G2 checkpoint?

    The G2 checkpoint ensures all DNA is replicated and undamaged before mitosis.