What is the name of the process that results in the division of cytoplasm during cell division?

Prepare for the HESI A2 Biology Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions, each featuring hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

The correct answer is cytokinesis, which refers specifically to the process that divides the cytoplasm of a parental cell into two daughter cells during cell division. This step occurs after mitosis or meiosis, which are the processes that divide the nucleus and its contents. During cytokinesis, the cell's cytoplasm, organelles, and cell membrane are separated, leading to the formation of two distinct cells.

Mitosis and meiosis are stages of nuclear division. Mitosis leads to the production of two genetically identical daughter cells, while meiosis is involved in the formation of gametes with half the original number of chromosomes. Fission generally refers to a type of asexual reproduction seen in prokaryotic organisms and does not precisely describe the process of cytoplasmic division in eukaryotic cells. Understanding the specific role of cytokinesis in cell division is crucial, as it ensures that each daughter cell has the requisite cellular components necessary for survival and function.

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