Final answer:
A cell is checked three times during the cell cycle at the G1, G2, and M checkpoints to ensure its health and normality before it is allowed to proceed through cell division. The correct option is c.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks how many times a cell is checked to ensure it's healthy and normal during the cell cycle. The answer is C) Three times. During the eukaryotic cell cycle, there are three main cell cycle checkpoints where a cell's condition is assessed:
- The G1 checkpoint ensures the integrity of the cell's DNA before it enters the synthesis phase.
- The G2 checkpoint confirms the replication of chromosomes and checks for DNA damage after the DNA synthesis phase.
- The M checkpoint, also known as the mitosis checkpoint, occurs during the mitosis phase. It checks whether mitosis is complete and ensures each kinetochore is attached to a spindle fiber before the cell is allowed to complete division.
These checkpoints help prevent the duplication and division of damaged or abnormal cells, maintaining cellular integrity and therefore, the well-being of the organism.