Question

When a single cell of E. coli reproduces, it first duplicates its DNA. Next, the cell elongates as each copy of DNA is pulled toward opposite ends of the cell. The membrane then pinches inward, dividing the cytoplasm into two halves and producing two daughter cells. What is true about these daughter cells? A. They are genetically different from the parent because they are produced by asexual reproduction. B. They are genetically different from the parent because they are produced by sexual reproduction. C. They are genetically identical to the parent because they are produced by asexual reproduction. D. They are genetically identical to the parent because they are produced by sexual reproduction.

Answer 1

The correct answer is C. They are genetically identical to the parent because they are produced by asexual reproduction.

Answer 2

C. They are genetically identical to the parent because they are produced by asexual reproduction

Step-by-step explanation:

E. coli is a popular species of bacteria, which reproduction by binary fission, a type of division similar to mitosis. The cell undergoes all normal procedures like DNA replication, actual division (binary fission) and cytokinesis to produce two daughter cells.

This process described is a form of asexual reproduction because it does not require a second partner for it to occur. It is a one organism process. Due to the fact that this process is quite similar to Mitosis, the two daughter cells are exact replica of the parents cell i.e. the daughter cells are genetically identical to the parent cell that divided as there is no room for genetic variation via asexual reproduction.