Which process yields two genetically identical diploid cells?

Which process yields two genetically identical diploid cells?

• A. Meiosis
• B. Cytokinesis
• C. Mitosis
• D. Fertilization

Answer: (C)

Mitosis is the process that preserves the chromosome number and genetic identity when a cell divides. After DNA replication, each chromosome consists of two identical sister chromatids. During mitosis, these chromatids separate into two new nuclei, so the two daughter cells receive the same genetic information as the original cell. When cytokinesis finishes, you have two genetically identical diploid daughter cells, assuming no new mutations occur. Meiosis, in contrast, reduces the chromosome number and introduces genetic variation through crossing over and independent assortment, yielding four haploid cells that are not identical. Fertilization combines two haploid gametes to form a diploid zygote, not two identical diploid cells. Cytokinesis is the final division of the cell’s cytoplasm and can accompany either mitosis or meiosis, but by itself it doesn’t determine that two identical diploid cells are produced.

Mitosis is the process that preserves the chromosome number and genetic identity when a cell divides. After DNA replication, each chromosome consists of two identical sister chromatids. During mitosis, these chromatids separate into two new nuclei, so the two daughter cells receive the same genetic information as the original cell. When cytokinesis finishes, you have two genetically identical diploid daughter cells, assuming no new mutations occur.

Meiosis, in contrast, reduces the chromosome number and introduces genetic variation through crossing over and independent assortment, yielding four haploid cells that are not identical. Fertilization combines two haploid gametes to form a diploid zygote, not two identical diploid cells. Cytokinesis is the final division of the cell’s cytoplasm and can accompany either mitosis or meiosis, but by itself it doesn’t determine that two identical diploid cells are produced.