What is defined as the series of changes that occurs within a cell from the time it is first formed until it reproduces?

What is defined as the series of changes that occurs within a cell from the time it is first formed until it reproduces?

• A. The series of changes that occurs within a cell from the time it is first formed until it reproduces.
• B. The process by which cells differentiate into tissues.
• C. The sequence of cell death and recycling in tissues.
• D. The genetic replication that occurs during meiosis.

Answer: (A)

The concept here is the cell cycle—the series of changes a cell undergoes from its formation until it divides. In interphase, the cell grows and duplicates its DNA (G1, S, G2). Then, in the division phase, the cell’s nucleus divides (mitosis) and the cytoplasm splits (cytokinesis), producing two daughter cells. This cycle is about growth, DNA replication, and eventual cell division, not about becoming specialized (differentiation), dying and being recycled, or the special division that makes gametes (meiosis).

The concept here is the cell cycle—the series of changes a cell undergoes from its formation until it divides. In interphase, the cell grows and duplicates its DNA (G1, S, G2). Then, in the division phase, the cell’s nucleus divides (mitosis) and the cytoplasm splits (cytokinesis), producing two daughter cells. This cycle is about growth, DNA replication, and eventual cell division, not about becoming specialized (differentiation), dying and being recycled, or the special division that makes gametes (meiosis).