A Level Biology Practice Exam

What is the main outcome of cytokinesis during the mitotic phase of the cell cycle?

1. Production of genetic material

2. Formation of two identical daughter cells

3. Separation of chromosomes

4. Replication of organelles

The correct answer is: Formation of two identical daughter cells

Cytokinesis is the process that occurs at the end of mitosis, leading to the physical separation of the cytoplasm into two distinct daughter cells. This is crucial because, after mitosis has ensured that genetic material—specifically, chromosomes—has been accurately divided and distributed between the two daughter cells, cytokinesis completes the cell division process by dividing the cytoplasmic contents. During cytokinesis, a cleavage furrow forms in animal cells, or a cell plate forms in plant cells, effectively splitting the original cell into two. This results in the formation of two genetically identical daughter cells, each with its own complete set of organelles and genetic material. While other processes like chromosome separation and organelle replication are critical during the overall cell cycle, they occur prior to cytokinesis. Therefore, the primary outcome of cytokinesis itself is the creation of two identical daughter cells, making this choice the main outcome of the process.