A gardener propagates a plant by taking cuttings. New plants grown from cuttings are genetically identical to the parent plant. Explain why the cells in the new plants are genetically identical to the cells of the parent plant.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Model answer (4 marks)
The new cells are produced by mitosis.
Mitosis divides one parent cell into two daughter cells.
The daughter cells are genetically identical to the parent cell – they contain the same chromosomes and the same DNA.
The diploid chromosome number is maintained in each daughter cell.
Mitosis divides one parent cell into two daughter cells.
The daughter cells are genetically identical to the parent cell – they contain the same chromosomes and the same DNA.
The diploid chromosome number is maintained in each daughter cell.
Examiner tips
- Use the word "mitosis" to show the process. State that mitosis gives two daughter cells. Mention that the chromosomes and DNA are unchanged. Show that the chromosome number stays diploid.
Common mistakes
- Confusing mitosis with meiosis. Saying the cells are "different" or "varied". Omitting that the chromosome number is unchanged.
Mark scheme (4 marks)
- The new cells are produced by mitosis
- Mitosis produces two daughter cells from one parent cell
- The daughter cells are genetically identical to the parent cell / contain the same chromosomes / same DNA as the parent cell
- The diploid chromosome number is maintained in each daughter cell
Related
- All Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) revision notes →
- How to answer a "Explain" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →