Question 47

Somatic cell is another term for a body cell.

Somatic cells refer to the body cells that make up the tissues and organs of an organism, excluding the reproductive cells. This term emphasizes their role in the structure and function of the organism.

A) Mitotic cell

Mitotic cells are those that are undergoing mitosis, a process of cell division. While body cells can be mitotic, the term "mitotic cell" does not specifically denote a body cell and is therefore not a suitable synonym.

B) Somatic cell

Somatic cell is indeed the correct term for a body cell. It encompasses all the cells in an organism that are not involved in reproduction, distinguishing them from germ cells, which are involved in the formation of gametes.

C) Epithelial cell

Epithelial cells are a type of somatic cell that make up the epithelium, a protective layer on surfaces and cavities. However, not all body cells are epithelial, making this term too specific to describe all body cells.

D) Germ cell

Germ cells are the reproductive cells that give rise to gametes, such as sperm and eggs. This term is the opposite of somatic cells, which are the non-reproductive cells of the body, thus making it incorrect in this context.

Conclusion

The term "somatic cell" accurately encompasses the definition of a body cell, as it refers to all non-reproductive cells in an organism. Other options either refer to specific types of cells or processes that do not align with the broader definition of body cells, confirming that option B is the only correct answer.