A Level Biology Practice Exam

What characterizes an undifferentiated cell?

1. It has a specific function within a tissue

2. It is specialized for a particular role

3. It originates from mitosis or meiosis

4. It can only divide through mitosis

The correct answer is: It originates from mitosis or meiosis

An undifferentiated cell is characterized by its potential to develop into various specialized cell types. This characteristic is often linked to its origin, as undifferentiated cells, such as stem cells, arise from processes like mitosis, which is the division of a cell into two identical daughter cells. This capability to continue dividing while remaining undifferentiated allows these cells to play critical roles in growth, development, and tissue repair. The other options suggest specific functions or specializations. An undifferentiated cell does not have a specific function within a tissue, nor is it specialized for a particular role as indicated by the first two choices. Although undifferentiated cells can proliferate through mitosis, they are not limited to this mode of division, as they have the potential to undergo differentiation under certain conditions, which is why the notion that they can only divide through mitosis is not entirely accurate. Thus, the correct characterization focuses on their origin from processes like mitosis and their ability to differentiate into specialized cells.