Which challenge of life is demonstrated when single-celled organisms split in half, resulting in twice as many organisms as before?
Question 5 options:
acquiring energy
reproducing
homeostasis/maintaining structure
hardiness
reproducing
The challenge of life demonstrated when single-celled organisms split in half, resulting in twice as many organisms as before, is reproducing.
The challenge of life demonstrated when single-celled organisms split in half, resulting in twice as many organisms as before is reproductive challenge. This process of reproduction in single-celled organisms is known as binary fission.
To understand this, let's break down the process:
1. Single-celled organism: Single-celled organisms, also called unicellular organisms, are made up of only one cell. Examples include bacteria and some types of algae and protozoa.
2. Splitting in half: During binary fission, the single-celled organism divides into two equal halves. This division occurs because the organism duplicates its genetic material (DNA) and then physically separates into two daughter cells. Each daughter cell contains a complete copy of the genetic material.
3. Resulting in twice as many organisms: As a result of binary fission, the single-celled organism produces two identical daughter cells. These daughter cells are essentially clones of the parent organism and have the potential to grow and function independently.
Therefore, the reproductive challenge demonstrated in this process is that the single-celled organism must successfully divide and produce offspring in order to increase their population. This is crucial for the survival and continuation of the species.