An example of mitosis at work is a leaf… turning yellow. growing. taking in carbon dioxide. performing photosynthesis.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is: growing.
Explanation:
Mitosis is the process by which a cell divides to produce two identical daughter cells, each containing the same number of chromosomes as the original cell. This process is essential for growth, repair, and maintenance in multicellular organisms like plants and animals.
In plants, mitosis occurs in specific regions called meristems, which are found in areas such as the tips of roots and shoots. These meristematic regions are responsible for producing new cells that allow the plant to grow in length or width. When a leaf grows, it does so because cells within it have divided through mitosis. As more cells are produced, the overall size of the leaf increases, contributing to the plant’s ability to capture sunlight for photosynthesis.
The other options mentioned do not directly involve mitosis:
- Turning yellow is typically a sign of aging or nutrient deficiency, often related to chlorophyll breakdown, not cell division.
- Taking in carbon dioxide is part of the leaf’s gas exchange process, essential for photosynthesis, but it is a physiological function, not a result of mitosis.
- Performing photosynthesis is the process by which a leaf converts sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen, providing energy for the plant. While photosynthesis requires healthy cells, it is not an example of mitosis.
In summary, the process of a leaf growing requires new cells to be produced, which happens through mitosis. This cellular division is fundamental to the development of new plant tissues, allowing leaves to expand and perform their vital functions, such as capturing light and exchanging gases. Thus, among the given choices, “growing” is the best example of mitosis at work.
