Question 35

Cytokinesis occurs to divide daughter cells.

Cytokinesis is the process that follows mitosis, where the cytoplasm of a parental cell is divided into two daughter cells. This is crucial for cell reproduction and ensures that each daughter cell receives the necessary cellular components.

A) To duplicate DNA

This option is incorrect because DNA duplication occurs during the S phase of the cell cycle, prior to mitosis. Cytokinesis is not involved in the replication of genetic material but rather in the division of the cell itself.

B) To convert energy within organelles

This option is not accurate as cytokinesis does not involve the conversion of energy within organelles. Instead, it focuses on the physical separation of the cell into two distinct entities, which is separate from any energy conversion processes.

C) To eliminate bacteria

Cytokinesis does not serve the function of eliminating bacteria. While immune responses may involve cell division, the primary purpose of cytokinesis is to facilitate the division of cells rather than targeting pathogens.

D) To divide daughter cells

This is the correct answer because cytokinesis is specifically the process that leads to the separation of the cytoplasm and the formation of two distinct daughter cells after mitosis. This ensures that each new cell has the necessary components to function independently.

Conclusion

Cytokinesis is essential for the physical division of a single cell into two daughter cells, which is fundamental to the process of cell reproduction. The other options, while related to cellular processes, do not accurately describe the purpose of cytokinesis, confirming that option D is the only correct choice.