Question

How many cells will be produced if a cell divides mitotically four times?

• A. 24
• B. 16
• C. 32
• D. 64

Answer 1

The correct option is B

16

The correct option is B:

Explanation of the correct option

1. A cell separates into two identical daughter cells during mitosis, which repeats all of its components, including its chromosomes.
2. A cell produces 16 cells when it divides four times mitotically.

Explanation of the incorrect options

Option A:

1. Per division, mitosis produces two daughter cells.
2. 16 cells are formed during the third division, while 32 cells are created during the fourth division.
3. The total number of cells created by dividing apart a single cell during mitosis is not exactly 24.

Option C:

1. After the parent cell divides to produce two daughter cells, there will be 32 cells after five generations of cell divisions.

Option D:

1. To make 64 cells, six generations of cell divisions are necessary.

Final answer:

16 cells will be produced if a cell divides mitotically four times.