Mitosis Test - Study Guide

Only for SPSV biology 2025

Cell division

Process by which a cell divides into two new daughter cells.

Asexual reproduction

Reproduction that requires only one parent and can occur quickly.

Sexual reproduction

Reproduction that requires two parents and occurs over time.

Binary fission

The method by which prokaryotes divide.

Chromatid

A single, linear strand of DNA that forms part of a duplicated chromosome.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where the cell grows and DNA is replicated.

G1 phase

The first phase of interphase where cell growth occurs.

S phase

The phase of interphase where DNA is replicated.

G2 phase

The phase of interphase for preparation for mitosis.

M Phase

The phase of the cell cycle that includes mitosis and cytokinesis.

Cytokinesis

The last step in cell division that splits one cell into two.

Cell differentiation

The process during which immature cells take on specialized forms and functions.

Embryonic stem cells

Versatile cells that can differentiate into most cell types.

Adult stem cells

More specialized cells involved in tissue repair and maintenance.

Totipotent cells

Cells that can develop into any kind of cell.

Pluripotent cells

Cells that can develop into most but not all cell types.

Multipotent cells

Cells that can develop into many types of differentiated cells.

Cancer

A genetic mutation in DNA responsible for regulating the cell cycle.

Checkpoints in the cell cycle

Surveillance mechanisms that monitor the order and integrity of major events in the cell cycle.

Immuno-oncology

Research on cancer treatments that utilize the body's immune system to combat cancer.

Pros of Asexual Reproduction

Quick reproduction; no need for a mate; offspring are genetically identical to the parent.

Cons of Asexual Reproduction

Lack of genetic diversity; vulnerability to changes in the environment; potential for overpopulation.

Pros of Sexual Reproduction

Increases genetic diversity; better adaptability to changing environments; potential for evolving new traits.

Cons of Sexual Reproduction

Requires two parents; longer time to produce offspring; involves energy in finding and courting mates.

Examples of Organisms that Reproduce Asexually

Bacteria, starfish, and some plants, such as strawberries and potatoes.

Examples of Organisms that Reproduce Sexually

Humans, birds, and flowering plants such as roses.

Organisms with Mixed Reproductive Strategies

Coral, some fungi, and yeast can reproduce both sexually and asexually depending on conditions.