Problem 3 - Campbell Biology Concepts & Connections

Question

Which of the following is not a function of mitosis in humans? a. repair of wounds b. growth c. production of gametes from diploid cells d. replacement of lost or damaged cells

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

c. production of gametes from diploid cells

Step 1: Understanding the functions of mitosis

Mitosis is a process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell. The primary functions of mitosis in humans are the repair of wounds, growth, and the replacement of lost or damaged cells.

Step 2: Analyzing each option

- Option a: Repair of wounds involves replacing damaged cells with new identical cells. This is a function of mitosis.- Option b: Growth occurs through the addition of new cells via mitosis. Thus, mitosis is responsible for growth.- Option c: Production of gametes (sperm and eggs) from diploid cells occurs via meiosis, not mitosis.- Option d: Replacement of lost or damaged cells is another function of mitosis.

Step 3: Identifying the correct answer

Based on the analysis, option c (production of gametes from diploid cells) is not a function of mitosis.

Key Concepts

cell division

In biology, cell division is a fundamental process that all living organisms undergo. It allows a single cell to divide and form two new daughter cells. This process is crucial for various functions such as growth, development, and repair of damaged tissues.
There are two primary types of cell division: mitosis and meiosis. Each type serves different purposes and occurs in different contexts.

• Mitosis results in two genetically identical daughter cells, maintaining the chromosome number of the original cell.
• Meiosis, on the other hand, results in four genetically unique daughter cells with half the chromosome number of the original cell, crucial for sexual reproduction.

Understanding these types helps clarify how organisms grow, develop, and reproduce.

mitosis vs. meiosis

Mitosis and meiosis are two distinct processes of cell division with different roles in the body.

Mitosis:
Mitosis is responsible for producing new cells for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction. During mitosis:

• A single cell divides to form two identical daughter cells.
• The chromosome number remains unchanged.
• It consists of phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

Meiosis:
Meiosis, in contrast, is crucial for sexual reproduction. During meiosis:

• A single cell undergoes two rounds of division to produce four non-identical daughter cells (gametes).
• The chromosome number is halved, producing haploid cells.
• It includes two sequential stages: meiosis I and meiosis II.

Understanding the differences between these processes highlights their unique functions in the human body.

human biology

Human biology is the study of the human body's structure, function, growth, and development.
Mitosis and meiosis are fundamental processes that support human life. Mitosis allows for the continuous replacement of old or damaged cells, thereby maintaining tissue health and aiding in wound repair.

Key Functions of Mitosis in Human Biology:

• Wound repair: Mitosis generates new cells to replace damaged ones, ensuring effective healing.
• Growth: During development, mitosis produces new cells for various tissues and organ systems.
• Cell replacement: Continuous cell turnover is essential for maintaining healthy tissues, such as in the skin and the lining of the gut.

Conversely, meiosis is essential for reproduction:

• Production of gametes: Meiosis generates sperm and eggs, each carrying half the genetic information needed to form a new individual upon fertilization.

These processes underscore the complexity and harmony of cellular activities in human biology.