Key Area 1: Producing New Cells

Question 1

What are the two stages of cell division?

Answer 1

The nucleus divides by mitosis, then the cytoplasm divides to form two daughter cells.

This process ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.

Question 2

What happens during mitosis?

Answer 2

Chromosomes double and condense, line up at the equator, spindle fibers pull chromatids apart, nuclear envelope forms, cytoplasm divides.

Mitosis is crucial for cell reproduction and growth.

Question 3

Why is mitosis important?

Answer 3

It provides new cells for growth and repair, maintaining the diploid chromosome complement.

Mitosis is essential for tissue regeneration and development.

Question 4

What are stem cells?

Answer 4

Non-specialised cells that can divide and become different cell types.

Stem cells have the potential to develop into various types of cells, making them vital for regenerative medicine.

Question 5

What is the hierarchy of cell organization?

Answer 5

Cells → Tissues → Organs → Systems.

This hierarchy illustrates the complexity of biological organization in multicellular organisms.