how does meiosis differ from mitosis

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Science Test

1. How does meiosis differ from mitosis?

A. Meiosis is used for repairing the body. Mitosis is used for cell reproduction.
B. Meiosis is used for sexual reproduction. Mitosis is used for asexual reproduction.
C. Meiosis occurs in various organisms. Mitosis occurs in various organisms.
D. Meiosis produces cells that are genetically different. Mitosis produces cells that are genetically identical.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Meiosis is the process of cell division that results in the formation of sex cells (gametes) with only half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell, leading to genetically different cells. In contrast, mitosis is a cell division process that produces two daughter cells that are genetically identical to each other and the parent cell, maintaining the same chromosome number. Therefore, the correct answer is D, as meiosis and mitosis differ in their genetic outcomes - meiosis results in genetic diversity, while mitosis maintains genetic identity. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not accurately distinguish between meiosis and mitosis. Meiosis is not used for repairing the body or asexual reproduction, and the occurrence of both processes in various organisms does not highlight their primary differences in genetic outcomes.

2. What is the main function of vacuoles in plant cells?

A. To provide structural support for the cell
B. To transport substances in and out of the cell
C. To synthesize proteins and lipids
D. To store water, enzymes, and waste products

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Vacuoles in plant cells primarily function as storage organelles. They store water, enzymes, pigments, and waste products, helping to maintain turgor pressure within the cell. This turgor pressure provides structural support for the plant cell. While vacuoles can also participate in transporting substances within the cell, their main role is storage. The synthesis of proteins and lipids is mainly handled by other organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus. Choice A is incorrect because while vacuoles indirectly contribute to structural support by maintaining turgor pressure, their primary function is storage. Choice B is incorrect as vacuoles are not primarily responsible for transporting substances in and out of the cell. Choice C is incorrect as vacuoles do not synthesize proteins and lipids; this function is carried out by other organelles.

3. Which organelle provides energy for cellular functions?

A. Nucleus
B. Cell membrane
C. Mitochondria
D. Cytoplasm

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Mitochondria. Mitochondria are often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell as they produce energy in the form of ATP through cellular respiration. This process is essential for various cellular functions, making mitochondria crucial for energy production within the cell. Choice A, Nucleus, is incorrect as the nucleus is responsible for housing the cell's genetic material and controlling cellular activities but not for energy production. Choice B, Cell membrane, is incorrect as it is primarily involved in maintaining cell integrity and regulating the passage of substances in and out of the cell, not in energy production. Choice D, Cytoplasm, is incorrect as it is the jelly-like substance that fills the cell and is the site of many metabolic pathways, but it is not the specific organelle responsible for energy production.

4. Microfilaments and microtubules are both components of the cytoskeleton, but they have different functions. Which of these describes microfilaments?

A. Provide structural support and shape
B. Facilitate cell movement and contraction
C. Form the mitotic spindle during cell division
D. Transport materials within the cell

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Microfilaments are thin, solid rods made of the protein actin and are primarily responsible for providing structural support to the cell and determining its shape. While they also play a role in cell movement, their main function is related to maintaining the structural integrity of the cell. Choice B, 'Facilitate cell movement and contraction,' describes microtubules, which are responsible for facilitating cell movement, providing structural support, and aiding in cell division. Choice C, 'Form the mitotic spindle during cell division,' specifically refers to the function of microtubules in forming the mitotic spindle. Choice D, 'Transport materials within the cell,' is characteristic of microtubules that are involved in intracellular transport of organelles and materials within the cell.

5. Which of the following organs functions as both an endocrine and exocrine gland?

A. The kidney
B. The spleen
C. The pancreas
D. The stomach

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The pancreas is the correct answer as it functions as both an endocrine and exocrine gland. The endocrine function involves secreting insulin and glucagon into the bloodstream to regulate blood sugar levels, while the exocrine function involves releasing digestive enzymes into the small intestine to aid in digestion. The kidney (Choice A) primarily functions in the excretory system by filtering blood and producing urine. The spleen (Choice B) is involved in the immune system and blood storage but does not have endocrine or exocrine functions. The stomach (Choice D) is mainly an organ of the digestive system, secreting gastric juices to aid in digestion, but it does not have a dual endocrine and exocrine function like the pancreas.