Mitosis ________.
a. Occurs only in cancerous cells.
b. Occurs only in skin cells.
c. Produces daughter cells that are exact genetic copies of the parent cell.
d. Results in the production of three different cells.

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Understand the concept of mitosis: Mitosis is a type of cell division that results in two daughter cells, each having the same number and type of chromosomes as the parent cell. It is essential for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction in multicellular organisms.

Analyze the options provided: Evaluate each statement to determine its accuracy based on the definition and function of mitosis.

Option a: 'Occurs only in cancerous cells' - This is incorrect because mitosis occurs in normal somatic (body) cells for growth and repair, not exclusively in cancerous cells.

Option b: 'Occurs only in skin cells' - This is incorrect because mitosis occurs in all somatic cells, not just skin cells.

Option c: 'Produces daughter cells that are exact genetic copies of the parent cell' - This is correct because mitosis ensures that the daughter cells are genetically identical to the parent cell, maintaining the same chromosome number and genetic information.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Mitosis

Mitosis is a type of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell. It is a crucial process for growth, development, and tissue repair in multicellular organisms. Mitosis consists of several stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, followed by cytokinesis, which divides the cytoplasm.

Genetic Identity

During mitosis, the daughter cells produced are exact genetic copies of the parent cell, meaning they have the same number of chromosomes and identical DNA sequences. This genetic consistency is vital for maintaining the organism's genetic integrity and ensuring that all cells function properly. Any errors in this process can lead to mutations or diseases, including cancer.

Cell Types and Mitosis

Mitosis occurs in somatic (non-reproductive) cells throughout the body, not just in specific types like skin cells or cancerous cells. It is essential for normal growth and repair processes in tissues. In contrast, meiosis is the type of cell division that produces gametes (sperm and eggs) and results in genetic diversity.

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