Daughter cell — Science definition
Defined in 2 courses:
- Either of the two cells produced, each with the same chromosome number as the original. (Life Science & Scientific Inquiry)
- One of the two new cells produced when a parent cell divides. (Life Science: Biology)
Where it is taught
- The Cell Cycle & Mitosis — Genes, Cell Division & Heredity, Life Science & Scientific Inquiry, Grade 7
- Mitosis & the Cell Cycle — Cell Division, Reproduction & Development, Life Science: Biology, Grade 10
In use
The cell then divides, and each daughter cell receives a complete set identical to the original.
The Cell Cycle & Mitosis
The outcome is two daughter cells — and because each one received a complete, identical set of chromosomes copied from the same original, the two normally inherit corresponding chromosome sets; copying or segregation errors can introduce differences.
Mitosis & the Cell Cycle
Questions using daughter cell
Problem 1
A diploid cell has 12 chromosomes before replication. How many chromosomes does each daughter cell normally have after mitosis and cytokinesis? Explain the reasoning in your own words.
Answer and explanation
Each daughter normally has 12 chromosomes in this model.
Replication makes sister chromatids without changing the stated chromosome number.
Normal separation gives each daughter the original set size.
Response criteria
- Use the stated conditions.
- Show the evidence or calculation.
- Explain the conclusion and any stated limitation.
Problem 2
A cell with 46 chromosomes completes mitosis. How many chromosomes does each daughter cell contain?
Answer and explanation
46
Each daughter receives one copy of every replicated chromosome, so the number is maintained at 46.