Answer + Explanation:
If a cell did not divide before it was split in half, the most likely scenario is that both halves would receive the same genetic information. This is because the genetic information in a cell's nucleus is replicated during the cell division process, and each resulting cell receives an identical copy. If the cell is not divided and is split in half, the genetic information in the nucleus is still intact and should be distributed equally between the two halves.
Therefore, option C, "The split cells would grow to become identical," is the most likely outcome. However, it is important to note that there are many factors that can affect cell growth and division, and that this scenario is highly unlikely to occur naturally. Additionally, the splitting of a cell in half is not a natural or common occurrence, as cells usually divide into two new cells during the cell cycle.