Question

How many divisions of mitosis are required for a somatic cell to form 256 cells?

• A. 4
• B. 8
• C. 16
• D. 32

Answer 1

The correct option is B 8

Each mitotic cell division gives rise to two daughter cells. Cell division is exponential i.e., 1 parent cell gives 2 daughter cells. Then, each of the 2 cells produced divide to produce 2 cells each, making a total of 4 cells. Again, 4 cells divide to produce 2 cells each, giving 8 cells in total. So, only 8 mitotic divisions are required for a somatic cell to form $256\left(2^8\right)$ cells.