Question

Karyokinesis differs from cytokinesis as it involves the division of
a. Cytoplasm
b. Nucleus
c. Both nucleus and cytoplasm
d. Cell

Answer 1

Cell division is the process by which the parent cell divides and produces two or more daughter cells. Karyokinesis and cytokinesis are the two important processes of cell division.

Complete Answer:
The M phase or Mitotic phase is a short phase of cell divisions. It comprises two important processes that occur simultaneously. They are Karyokinesis and Cytokinesis resulting in two daughter cells.

Option a: In cytokinesis, the division of the cytoplasm occurs to form two separate daughter cells immediately after mitosis. It results in the separation of organelles, including the nuclei, into the two daughter cells.

Option b: Karyokinesis is the division of the nucleus during the cell cycle. It is the first step during the mitosis or meiosis of the cell cycle. It results in the formation of two daughter nuclei which corresponds to the separation of daughter chromosomes into these two nuclei. It is generally followed by cytokinesis which is nothing but the division of the cytoplasm to form two separate daughter cells immediately after mitosis.

Option c: Karyokinesis is the process of division of the nucleus of a cell during the phase of division (mitosis or meiosis), while cytokinesis is the process of division of the cytoplasm of the cell.

Option d: Cell division is the process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells.

Hence the correct answer is option B.

Note: It is to be noted that karyokinesis is independent of cytokinesis. It can occur without being followed by cytokinesis. However, cytokinesis cannot take place without karyokinesis i.e. it is dependent on karyokinesis.