Cell Division in Plants and Animals

Flashcards covering essential concepts about cell division, specifically mitosis and meiosis, their phases, differences, and importance in organisms.

What are the two main types of cell division in eukaryotic cells?

Mitosis and meiosis.

What is the main purpose of mitosis?

To produce genetically identical cells for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction.

What are the four major phases of mitosis?

Prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

How does cytokinesis differ between plant and animal cells?

Animal cells form a cleavage furrow, while plant cells form a cell plate due to their rigid cell wall.

What is the role of gametes in meiosis?

Gametes are produced as reproductive cells with half the number of chromosomes.

What is the cell cycle and its phases?

The cell cycle is made up of G1, S, G2, and M phase.

What occurs during the S phase of the cell cycle?

DNA synthesis and chromosome replication.

What are diploid and haploid cells?

Diploid cells have two sets of chromosomes, while haploid cells have one set.

What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis in terms of resulting cells?

Mitosis produces two genetically identical cells, while meiosis produces four genetically different cells.

Why is meiosis important for genetic variation?

It introduces new gene combinations through genetic recombination.

How does meiosis occur in plants?

Meiosis results in the formation of spores that grow into gametophytes.

What triggers the initiation of the mitotic cell cycle?

The presence of growth factors or signals indicating the need for new cells.

What is the function of the spindle fibers during cell division?

To help separate chromosomes during mitosis and meiosis.