1. Distinguish between somatic and reproductive cell division and explain the importance of each.
In somatic cell division, cells undergo processes called interphase, mitosis, and cytokinesis. It is responsible for the growth and repair of cells as well as body formation. Various sub-phases will be undergone by the cell, including Gap 1, Synthesis, and Gap 2 during the interphase. Then, they will undergo the prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase or the PMAT, and lastly, the cytokinesis. After these processes of somatic cell division, there will be a product of two diploid daughter cells.
On the other hand, during reproductive cell division, cells divide in order to form haploid daughter cells. The process of this division is called meiosis, which is divided into 2 stages, meiosis I and meiosis II. A cell’s function can contribute to the formation of a new individual or new cells for growth and repair.
2. What is the significance of interphase?
Interphase is the longest process of the cell cycle. It shows a distinct nucleus and the absence of chromosomes. This phase is essential because the chromosomes are being replicated as various preparations are being made in this phase, for the next stage (cell division). When a cell fails to undergo interphase, it will not be able to progress to the next stages of the cell cycle.