Cell Division Flashcards
Why does a cell limit its size?
If it doesn’t, there will be:
1. Information overload
2. Trouble exchanging materials
3. Productivity
What happens when a cell divides?
It divides into 2 “daughter” cells
What problem does cell division solve?
It solves the problem of a cell growing too big
What is the result of cell division?
An increase in the ratio of surface area to volume for each daughter cell, which allows for efficiency.
What are the advantages of asexual reproduction?
- Simple and efficient
- Makes populations grow quickly
What is the disadvantage of asexual reproduction?
The cells are genetically identical
What is an advantage of sexual reproduction?
The daughter cells are genetically unique
What is a disadvantage of sexual reproduction?
Process takes longer and populations don’t grow as quickly
What is the role of chromosomes?
Chromosomes hold the DNA of a cell and this ensures that each daughter cell gets the same amount during cell division.
Describe a prokaryotic cell and its nucleus
Prokaryotes lack nuclei and many of the organelles that are found in eukaryotes. Their DNA molecules are located in the cytoplasm with most of the other stuff. Most prokaryotes have only 1 single, circular DNA chromosome strand.
Describe a eukaryotic cell and its DNA
They generally have much more DNA than prokaryotes have, thus containing more chromosomes.
What is a histone? What does it do (eukaryotic cell)?
A histone is a protein. The DNA coils around histones and together, they form beadlike structures called nucleosomes.
What is a nucleosome?
A bead like structure formed when DNA coils around histones.
What is binary fission?
The process of cell division in asexual reproduction that prokaryotic cells go through.
What is the result of binary fission?
The production of 2 genetically identical cells.