How does the cell cycle assure genetic continuity?

Question

" AP Edition Biology Book"

aouthor : campbell reece

Answer 1

Because each new cell gets exactly one copy of the parent cell's DNA. If there are serious deviations from this (eg. a chromosome is missing), then the cell with this mutation likely does not live. Thus only cells that are healthy survive and pass on their genetic material. This is kind of like natural selection on a cellular level.

Answer 2

There are 2 types of cell cycles, mitosis and meiosis.

In mitosis, identical genetic continuity is assured. The DNA are replicated during the Interphase and then undergo cell division, producing 2 genetically identical daughter cells. This allows for similar cells of identical genetic information to grow.

In meiosis, 4 genetically different daughter cells are produced. This cell cycle allows for genetic variation and is the results of the physical differences between individuals. The DNA is similarly replicated during Interphase then the cell undergoes its respective cell division. The number of chromosomes in these cells are halved after meiosis. These cells are s*x cells (gametes). The reason for this is so that when they are fertilized by another s*x cell (male and female), they will have the original number of chromosomes.

Its replication of DNA before it divides, allow cells to have genetic continuity - ensuring that eventually, all cells have the same number of chromosomes.