The correct answer is A. Cell division.
Cell division is the process by which a cell divides into two or more daughter cells. It is a fundamental process in all living things, and it is essential for growth, development, and reproduction.
There are two main types of cell division: mitosis and meiosis. Mitosis is the process by which a somatic cell (a cell that is not a gamete) divides into two identical daughter cells. Meiosis is the process by which a germ cell (a cell that can give rise to gametes) divides into four daughter cells, each of which contains half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.
Cell division is a complex process that is regulated by a number of genes. The first step in cell division is the replication of the DNA. This process ensures that each daughter cell will have a complete set of chromosomes. The next step is the division of the cytoplasm. This process is divided into two phases: cytokinesis and karyokinesis. Cytokinesis is the division of the cytoplasm, while karyokinesis is the division of the nucleus.
Cell division is a vital process that is essential for life. It is responsible for the growth and development of all living things, and it is also necessary for reproduction.
The other options are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the process of cell division.
- Option B, cell reproduction, is a more general term that can refer to any process by which cells are produced. Cell division is one type of cell reproduction, but there are other types as well, such as budding and sporulation.
- Option C, cell synthesis, is the process by which new cells are created from existing cells. This process involves the production of new proteins and other molecules that are necessary for cell growth and division.
- Option D, fragmentation, is a type of asexual reproduction in which a parent organism breaks into two or more pieces, each of which then develops into a new individual. This process is common in some types of bacteria and algae.