2. Prokaryotic & Viral Replication

Question 1

What is the process of prokaryotic reproduction called?

Answer 1

Binary fission

Question 2

2 key features of binary fission

Answer 2

1. Asexual reproduction

2. Produces 2 identical daughter cells

Question 3

Binary fission step 1

Answer 3

Cell replicates its circular DNA molecule (nucleoid) and plasmids

Question 4

Where is the replicated nucleoid attached to in a prokaryotic cell?

Answer 4

To the cell-surface membrane

Question 5

Binary fission step 2

Answer 5

The cytoplasmic membrane elongates from the centre of the cell, separating DNA molecules

Question 6

Binary fission step 3

Answer 6

Cell surface membrane begins to grow between the two DNA molecules and pinches inward, dividing the cytoplasm into two

Question 7

Binary fission step 4

Answer 7

A new cell wall forms between the two molecules of DNA, dividing the original cell into 2 identical daughter cells, each with a single copy of the circular DNA and a variable number of copies of the plasmids

Question 8

Viral replication process (7 steps)

Answer 8

1. Virus attaches to specific host cell using attachment proteins
2. Virus DNA enters cell
3. Virus DNA injected into host chromosome
4. Host cell transcribes & translates virus DNA & builds viral proteins
5. New viruses form
6. Cell lysis causes viruses to be released