1. Distinguish between somatic and reproductive cell division and explain the importance of each.
Somatic cell division is also called mitosis, which is responsible for new cell development, and cell growth, repair, and regeneration. Here, the cells undergo interphase, prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase — producing two diploid cells which are identical to each other. Meanwhile, reproductive cell division is also referred to as meiosis, which produces the cells needed for gamete formation (egg and sperm cells), and for the offspring to have the appropriate set of chromosomes. Through this process, cells undergo Meiosis I, and Meiosis II to produce four haploid cells.
2. What is the significance of interphase?
The interphase is an essential stage of the cell cycle which serves as a preparation for the cells to divide. Here, the cell undergoes different metabolic reactions, nutrient acquisition, chromosome and/or DNA replication, cell growth, and other final preparations for the cell to be ready for division. Without this process, cell division is not possible.