In bacteria, binary fission can be modeled in
• four stages.
• three stages.
• one stage.
• two stages.
Two stages.
To determine which option is correct, we need to understand the process of bacterial binary fission.
Bacterial binary fission is a form of asexual reproduction where a single bacterium divides into two identical daughter cells. This process typically involves a series of steps.
During the first stage of binary fission, the DNA of the bacterium is replicated, resulting in two identical copies of the genetic material.
In the second stage, the cell elongates, during which the replicated DNA molecules move apart. This elongation prepares the bacterium for division.
The third stage involves the division of the cell into two daughter cells. A septum, which is a partitioning structure, forms at the center of the cell, separating the replicated DNA copies. The septum then grows inward until it completely divides the bacterium into two separate daughter cells.
Finally, in the fourth stage, the newly formed daughter cells separate completely and resume their normal cellular activities.
Now, we can determine the correct answer by matching the stages of binary fission with the provided options:
• Four stages: This option matches the process of binary fission, where the four stages involved are DNA replication, cell elongation, division, and separation. However, the given options only include a maximum of three stages, so this option is incorrect.
• Three stages: This option does not fully describe the process of binary fission, as it omits the "separation" stage. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
• One stage: This option is incorrect because binary fission is a multi-step process involving DNA replication, cell elongation, division, and separation.
• Two stages: This option is also incorrect because binary fission involves more than two stages.
Based on this analysis, the correct answer is: Binary fission in bacteria can be modeled in four stages.