HESI A2 Practice Test Biology Related

Review HESI A2 Practice Test Biology related questions and content

Which of the following describes how a bacterium reproduces?

  • A. Mitosis
  • B. Meiosis
  • C. Binary fission
  • D. Cytokinesis
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Bacteria reproduce through a process called 'binary fission.' During binary fission, a bacterium duplicates its DNA and then divides into two identical daughter cells. This method is the primary way bacteria replicate. Choice A, 'Mitosis,' is incorrect because mitosis is a process specific to eukaryotic cells, where the nucleus divides to produce two identical nuclei. Choice B, 'Meiosis,' is incorrect as meiosis is a specialized type of cell division that produces gametes with half the chromosome number. Choice D, 'Cytokinesis,' is not the correct answer as cytokinesis is the physical process of cell division, which occurs after the genetic material has been divided in mitosis or meiosis.