Consider the following statements: DNA replication takes place when

Consider the following statements:

  • DNA replication takes place when chromatin is opened up.
  • Chromatin organises itself into rod-shaped chromosomes before cell division.
  • Both prokaryotes and eukaryotes have the same process for cell division.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

1 only
1 and 2 only
1, 2 and 3
3 only
This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2024
Statements 1 and 2 are correct, while statement 3 is incorrect. Thus, the correct option is B.
Statement 1 is correct: DNA replication happens during the S phase when chromatin is relatively decondensed (‘opened up’) to allow access for replication enzymes. Statement 2 is correct: Before eukaryotic cell division (mitosis or meiosis), the diffuse chromatin fibers condense and coil tightly to form discrete, visible chromosomes. Statement 3 is incorrect: Prokaryotic cell division (binary fission) is a simpler process than eukaryotic cell division (mitosis and meiosis), which involves complex stages, spindle formation, and chromosome segregation mechanisms not found in prokaryotes.
In eukaryotes, DNA replication occurs during interphase, specifically the S phase. Chromosome condensation makes it easier to accurately segregate genetic material during cell division. Prokaryotic cells have a single circular chromosome and divide rapidly through binary fission without forming complex structures like a mitotic spindle.
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