Which of the following is a function of mitosis?
A. to make a cell exit the cell cycle
B. to repair damaged tissue
C. to send chemicals signals throughout the body
D. to cause a cell to grow
B. to repair damaged tissue
The correct answer is:
B. to repair damaged tissue
Mitosis is a cellular process in which a cell duplicates its DNA and divides into two identical daughter cells. One of the primary functions of mitosis is to repair damaged tissue in multicellular organisms. When cells in the body are damaged or need to be replaced, mitosis allows for the proliferation and replacement of these cells to maintain tissue integrity and function. The other options mentioned (A, C, and D) do not correctly describe the function of mitosis.
To determine the correct answer, let's examine the options:
A. To make a cell exit the cell cycle: This is not a function of mitosis. The cell cycle consists of multiple stages, which include mitosis. Therefore, mitosis does not make a cell exit the cell cycle.
B. To repair damaged tissue: This is not the function of mitosis. Tissue repair is usually associated with a specialized process called tissue regeneration or wound healing, which involves cell division but also other cellular processes.
C. To send chemical signals throughout the body: This is not a function of mitosis. Sending chemical signals throughout the body is typically achieved by the endocrine and nervous systems through the release of hormones and neurotransmitters, respectively.
D. To cause a cell to grow: This is the correct function of mitosis. Mitosis is the process by which a cell divides into two identical daughter cells. It is responsible for growth and development, as well as tissue maintenance in multicellular organisms.
Therefore, the correct answer is D. To cause a cell to grow. To arrive at this answer, understanding the basic function of mitosis and comparing it with the other options was necessary.