Question 28

Binary fission describes how a bacterium reproduces.

Bacteria reproduce asexually through a process known as binary fission, where a single bacterial cell divides into two identical daughter cells.

A) Mitosis

Mitosis is a process of cell division that occurs in eukaryotic organisms, resulting in two genetically identical daughter cells. Since bacteria are prokaryotes, they do not undergo mitosis, making this option incorrect.

B) Meiosis

Meiosis is a specialized form of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half and is essential for sexual reproduction in eukaryotes. Bacteria do not reproduce sexually and thus do not undergo meiosis, rendering this option incorrect.

C) Binary fission

Binary fission is the correct answer, as it is the primary method through which bacteria reproduce. In this process, a bacterium grows to a certain size, duplicates its genetic material, and divides into two equal parts, each becoming a new bacterium.

D) Cytokinesis

Cytokinesis is the final stage of cell division in eukaryotic cells where the cytoplasm divides, resulting in two separate cells. While cytokinesis does occur in conjunction with mitosis, it is not the method of reproduction in bacteria, making this option incorrect.

Conclusion

Binary fission is the definitive mode of reproduction for bacteria, clearly distinguishing it from the other processes listed. Mitosis, meiosis, and cytokinesis are all associated with eukaryotic cell division and reproduction, while binary fission is specific to prokaryotic organisms, affirming its correctness in this context.