[Campbell Biology P.284] The text mentions that a typical human cell has about 2 meters of D... | Practice Question

The text mentions that a typical human cell has about 2 meters of DNA. Why is it essential for this vast amount of DNA to be packaged into structures like chromosomes before cell division?

  • A: To facilitate gene expression by making DNA more accessible to enzymes.
  • B: To prevent DNA mutations by protecting it from environmental damage.
  • C: To manage and accurately distribute the replicated DNA copies into two daughter cells.
  • D: To synthesize new DNA molecules for the upcoming cell division.

Explanation

The text states: 'Before the cell can divide to form genetically identical daughter cells, all of this DNA must be copied, or replicated, and then the two copies must be separated so that each daughter cell ends up with a complete genome. The replication and distribution of so much DNA are manageable because the DNA molecules are packaged into structures called chromosomes.' This packaging allows for the efficient and accurate segregation of genetic material.