Question 1

What happens to sister chromatids during cell division?

Accepted Answer

Sister chromatids are identical DNA copies held together at the centromere. During mitosis and cytokinesis, they separate to ensure each daughter cell receives identical genetic material. This separation occurs during anaphase when the centromere divides, allowing chromatids to move toward opposite poles of the cell.

Question 2

When do sister chromatids separate during the cell cycle?

Accepted Answer

Sister chromatid separation occurs during anaphase, a stage of mitosis. At this point, the protein bonds holding sister chromatids together at the centromere break down. The separated chromatids, now individual chromosomes, move to opposite ends of the cell to be distributed to daughter cells.

Question 3

What role does the centromere play in chromatid separation?

Accepted Answer

The centromere is the constricted region where sister chromatids attach before separation. It serves as the attachment point for spindle fibers that pull chromatids apart during anaphase. When the centromere divides, it signals the release of sister chromatids, allowing them to migrate to opposite poles.

Question 4

How does chromosome segregation ensure genetic accuracy?

Accepted Answer

Chromosome segregation distributes identical sister chromatids equally to daughter cells, maintaining genetic consistency. Each daughter cell receives the same number and type of chromosomes as the parent cell. This precise separation prevents genetic imbalances and ensures proper cellular function in offspring cells.

Question 5

What is the difference between sister chromatids and homologous chromosomes?

Accepted Answer

Sister chromatids are identical copies of a single chromosome joined at the centromere. Homologous chromosomes are different chromosome pairs, one from each parent, that separate during meiosis. Sister chromatids separate during mitosis, while homologous chromosomes separate during the first meiotic division.

Question 6

What happens if sister chromatids fail to separate properly?

Accepted Answer

Failure of sister chromatids to separate, called nondisjunction, results in unequal chromosome distribution to daughter cells. Daughter cells may receive too many or too few chromosomes, causing aneuploidy. This chromosomal imbalance can lead to cell dysfunction, developmental abnormalities, or cell death.

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