HESI A2 Biology Practice Test Related

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Why can animal cells use a contractile ring but plant cells cannot?

  • A. Plant cells can use both methods to divide
  • B. Animal cells divide faster, requiring them to pinch apart
  • C. Plant cells are too rigid to use a contractile ring
  • D. N/A
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Plant cells have a rigid cell wall surrounding them, which prevents them from using a contractile ring for cell division. The rigid cell wall requires plant cells to form a cell plate during cell division instead of pinching apart like animal cells with a contractile ring. Choice A is incorrect because plant cells cannot use a contractile ring due to their rigid cell wall. Choice B is incorrect as the speed of cell division is not the primary reason for the difference in cell division mechanisms between plant and animal cells. Choice D is not applicable as plant cells indeed have a specific limitation in using a contractile ring for cell division.