Why is mitosis a longer and more complicated process of cell division than binary fission?(1 point)
Responses
Mitosis occurs in the cytoplasm and does not require a nucleus
Mitosis occurs in the cytoplasm and does not require a nucleus
Mitosis has check points that must be met to continue the cycle
Mitosis has check points that must be met to continue the cycle
Binary fission produces two identical daughter cells
Binary fission produces two identical daughter cells
Binary fission does not replicate DNA
Mitosis is a longer and more complicated process of cell division compared to binary fission because of the following reasons:
1. Mitosis occurs in eukaryotic cells, which have a nucleus that contains the DNA. Before the actual process of division can occur, the DNA needs to be replicated accurately. This step alone adds complexity and time to the process. In contrast, binary fission occurs in prokaryotic cells where there is no membrane-bound nucleus, and the DNA replication is relatively simpler.
2. Mitosis involves a series of stages, including prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, which requires the coordination of numerous molecular events to ensure successful separation and distribution of genetic material. These stages are tightly regulated and involve the assembly and disassembly of complex protein structures, such as the mitotic spindle, to accurately segregate the chromosomes. Binary fission, on the other hand, is a simpler process that mainly involves the elongation of the cell followed by the division of the DNA and the cytoplasm.
3. Mitosis includes checkpoints at various stages to ensure accurate DNA replication and proper segregation of chromosomes. These checkpoints evaluate various aspects of the cell's readiness to proceed with cell division, such as the integrity of the DNA, the presence of DNA damage, and the alignment of chromosomes. Binary fission does not possess such checkpoints and proceeds more rapidly without these regulatory mechanisms.
4. Mitosis can give rise to daughter cells with varied genetic makeup due to the exchange of genetic material through processes like crossing over during meiosis. This contributes to the complexity and diversity of the resulting cell population. In contrast, binary fission produces two identical daughter cells as the DNA is replicated and divided without any exchange or recombination of genetic material.
Overall, the complexity and length of mitosis compared to binary fission can be attributed to the presence of a nucleus, the need for accurate DNA replication, coordinated protein actions, regulatory checkpoints, and the potential for genetic diversity.