#1
Which phase of the cell cycle is characterized by DNA synthesis?
S phase
ExplanationS phase is the stage where DNA synthesis occurs, leading to the replication of genetic material.
#2
Which enzyme is responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix during DNA replication?
Helicase
ExplanationHelicase is the enzyme that unwinds the DNA double helix, allowing replication to occur.
#3
Which checkpoint in the cell cycle ensures that DNA replication has been successfully completed?
G2 checkpoint
ExplanationThe G2 checkpoint verifies the successful completion of DNA replication before allowing the cell to proceed to mitosis.
#4
What is the main function of the anaphase-promoting complex (APC) in cell cycle regulation?
Control the onset of anaphase
ExplanationThe APC regulates the cell cycle by controlling the onset of anaphase, ensuring the proper separation of chromatids.
#5
During DNA replication, which enzyme is responsible for synthesizing the new complementary strands of DNA?
DNA polymerase
ExplanationDNA polymerase is the enzyme responsible for synthesizing new complementary strands of DNA during replication.
#6
What is the role of the spindle fibers during cell division?
Separate sister chromatids
ExplanationSpindle fibers aid in the separation of sister chromatids, ensuring each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes.
#7
During mitosis, in which phase do the sister chromatids separate and move to opposite poles of the cell?
Anaphase
ExplanationAnaphase is the phase in mitosis where sister chromatids are pulled apart and move towards opposite ends of the cell.
#8
What is the purpose of the G0 phase in the cell cycle?
Cell differentiation
ExplanationG0 phase is a non-dividing state where cells may undergo differentiation, taking on specific functions.
#9
During cytokinesis in animal cells, what structure forms to divide the cytoplasm?
Cleavage furrow
ExplanationThe cleavage furrow forms during animal cell cytokinesis, constricting and dividing the cytoplasm into two daughter cells.
#10
What is the role of cyclins in regulating the cell cycle?
Promote cell division
ExplanationCyclins regulate the cell cycle by activating cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) to promote progression through different phases, including cell division.
#11
During meiosis, when do homologous chromosomes separate from each other?
Anaphase I
ExplanationHomologous chromosomes separate during Anaphase I of meiosis, ensuring each resulting cell has a unique combination of chromosomes.
#12
What is the significance of meiosis in the production of gametes?
Increases genetic diversity
ExplanationMeiosis increases genetic diversity by shuffling and recombining genes during the formation of gametes.
#13
In a human somatic cell, how many chromosomes are present during the G1 phase of the cell cycle?
46
ExplanationDuring G1 phase, a human somatic cell has 46 chromosomes, the normal diploid number.
#14
What is the primary function of the centrosome in cell division?
Microtubule organization
ExplanationThe centrosome organizes microtubules, contributing to the formation of the mitotic spindle during cell division.
#15
In meiosis, what is the result of crossing over between homologous chromosomes?
Production of haploid gametes
ExplanationCrossing over in meiosis leads to the exchange of genetic material and the production of haploid gametes with unique genetic combinations.
#16
What is the significance of the p53 protein in the cell cycle?
Induces apoptosis
ExplanationThe p53 protein plays a crucial role in the cell cycle by inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cells with damaged DNA.
#17
During mitosis, when do the nuclear envelopes reform around the separated chromatids?
Telophase
ExplanationNuclear envelopes reform around separated chromatids during Telophase of mitosis, marking the end of nuclear division.