Question

Cell A has as much DNA as cells B, C, and D in mitotically active tissue. Cell A is most likely in

(A) G₁.

(B) G₂

(C) prophase.

(D) metaphase

Short answer

(A) The option “G₁” is true.

(B) The option “G₂” is false.

(C) The option“prophase” is false.

(D) The option “metaphase” is false.

Step-by-step solution

Description of mitosis

Mitosis is the phase in which the existing cells divide to produce daughter cells. The somatic cell present in the body undergoes mitosis division. The other type of cell division is meiosis.

Explanation of option “(A)”

The synthesis phase is the phase in which the DNA is produced. The S phase takes place between the G1 phase and G2 phase.

After the G1 phase, more DNA in cell A will be mitotically active compared to the B, C, and D cells.

Therefore, the given statement is true.

Explanation of option “(B)”

G2 phase is the immediate step in which cell growth occurs, and protein synthesis takes place. The G2 phase is the phase of protein in which the DNA number does not increase or decrease.

Cell A has DNA content that does not increase after the G2 phase.

Therefore, the given statement is false.

Explanation of option “(C)”

Prophase is when the genetic material is separated into two parts to undergo further cell division. The chromatin condensation takes place in this phase.

The prophase does not cause an increase in the number of DNA in cell A.

Therefore, the given statement is false.

Explanation of option “(D)”

Metaphase is the phase in which the duplicated chromosomal materials are enclosed within the daughter cells. The chromosomes are coiled in this phase.

Metaphase is the phase that does not involve the increase in the number of DNA.

Therefore, the given statement is false.