Alberta Written Barber Practice Exam

What structure in a cell is known to assist during the process of cell division?

1. Mitochondria

2. Centrioles

3. Nucleus

4. Ribosomes

The correct answer is: Centrioles

Centrioles play a crucial role in cell division, specifically during the process of mitosis and meiosis. They are cylindrical structures made from microtubules and are located in the centrosome, which is the organizing center for microtubules in cells. During cell division, centrioles help to organize the mitotic spindle, which is essential for separating chromosomes and ensuring that each daughter cell receives an accurate and complete set of chromosomes. In more detail, centrioles duplicate and move to opposite poles of the cell, establishing the poles of the mitotic spindle. They anchor the spindle fibers that will attach to the chromosomes, facilitating their movement during cell division. This ensures that genetic material is equally divided between the two resulting daughter cells. Other structures listed have different primary roles; for example, mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell, providing energy through ATP production, the nucleus houses genetic material and regulates gene expression, while ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis. None of these structures are directly involved in organizing or facilitating the process of cell division like centrioles are.