1. Distinguish between somatic and reproductive cell division and explain the importance of each.
Somatic cell division is done through Mitosis where cells undergo Interphase, Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase to produce two (2) diploid daughter cells which are identical to each other. On the other hand, reproductive cell division or Meiosis is a process where cells undergo Interphase, MEIOSIS 1 (prophase 1, metaphase 1, anaphase 1, telophase 1, cytokinesis), and MEIOSIS 2 (prophase 2, metaphase 2, anaphase 2, telophase 2, cytokinesis). It results to four (4) haploid daughter cells that are not genetically identical with each other (due to crossing over). Both are essential processes as the former provides new cells for growth and replacement of worn-out cells while the latter makes the cells needed for sexual reproduction to occur.
2. What is the significance of interphase?
Interphase is a vital stage of cell division as this is the time when the chromosomes are replicated, the cell starts to grow, and final preparations are done to ensure that the cell is ready for division.