1. Distinguish between somatic and reproductive cell division and explain the importance of each.
- Somatic cells undergo mitosis in order to produce two genetically identical daughter cells or two sets of chromosomes, one inherited from each parent. Furthermore, a somatic cell is any cell in a multicellular organism that does not develop germ-line cells or produce eggs and sperm. In contrast, reproductive cells are found in the gonads or the testes and ovaries, and they create gametes with half the number of chromosomes. This process involves a reduction division, no DNA replication between divisions, and germ-cells undergo meiosis to produce haploid gametes. Somatic cells contribute to growth, tissue repair, and the reproduction of single-celled animals, as well as ensuring that each daughter cell obtains genetic information. Alternatively, reproductive cells are important because, through cell division, they create gametes, which then fertilize to form the zygote. Zygotes grow and evolve into an entirely new organism through cell division.
2. What is the significance of interphase?
- During the interphase stage, which occurs just before cell division, the cell grows, copies its DNA, and gets ready to divide. A cell will spend approximately ninety percent of its life in the interphase stage. During the growth phase, also referred to as the G1 phase or the First Growth Phase. The cell is expanding very quickly to reach its full size while simultaneously carrying out its typical functions. On the other hand, In terms of the process of copying the DNA, the Synthesis Phase is the stage at which the chromosomes consist of two chromatids that are identical and are connected to the centromere. Finally, the microtubules that will become spindle fibers are assembled during the Second Growth Phase, often known as G2. During this phase, preparations are made for the nucleus to divide, and spindle fibers are also assembled.