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Quizzes > Science > Biology

Take the Cell Cycle & DNA Quiz and Ace Biology Basics

Ready for a Cell Cycle Phases Quiz? Challenge Your DNA Knowledge!

Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration of cell cycle phases and DNA strands on golden yellow background for biology quiz

Ready to dive into a captivating biology challenge? Test your knowledge in our ultimate cell cycle dna quiz! This free, fun challenge guides you through every stage, from the precise steps of a cell cycle phases quiz to the elegant choreography of DNA replication quiz and beyond. Master G1, S, G2 and M phases, discover how cyclins trigger transitions, and deepen your cell insight. Whether you're a biology buff or just curious, our cell cycle mitosis quiz and interactive cell division quiz sharpen your understanding of mitosis vs meiosis, chromosome dynamics, and core concepts. Join now, push your limits, and ace these key topics - start the quiz today!

During which phase of the cell cycle does the cell grow and carry out normal functions before DNA synthesis?
M phase
S phase
G1 phase
G2 phase
The G1 phase is the first gap phase of the cell cycle where cells increase in size, produce RNA, and synthesize proteins necessary for DNA replication. It precedes the S phase during which DNA synthesis occurs. Proper cell growth in G1 ensures that the cell is ready for the demands of genome duplication. Cell Cycle - Wikipedia
Which phase of the cell cycle is characterized by DNA replication?
S phase
M phase
G2 phase
G1 phase
The S phase, or synthesis phase, is when DNA replication occurs, resulting in two identical sister chromatids for each chromosome. This phase is critical for ensuring genetic information is accurately duplicated prior to cell division. Errors during S phase can lead to mutations or genomic instability. DNA Replication - NCBI Bookshelf
Which event occurs during mitosis?
RNA transcription
DNA replication
Nuclear division
Cell growth
Mitosis is the process of nuclear division, during which sister chromatids are separated into two daughter nuclei. DNA replication has already occurred in the preceding S phase. After mitosis, cytokinesis divides the cytoplasm to form two separate cells. Mitosis - Wikipedia
Which enzyme is responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix at the replication fork?
DNA ligase
DNA helicase
Primase
DNA polymerase
DNA helicase breaks the hydrogen bonds between DNA strands, unwinding the double helix and creating the replication fork. This unwinding is essential for replication machinery to access single-stranded DNA templates. Helicase action generates torsional strain that is relieved by topoisomerases. DNA Helicase - Britannica
What is the complementary DNA sequence to 5'-ATGCC-3'?
5'-CGGTA-3'
3'-TACGG-5'
3'-GUACC-5'
5'-TACGG-3'
DNA strands are antiparallel. The complement to A is T and to G is C, so the opposite strand runs 3' to 5'. Therefore, the sequence complementary to 5'-ATGCC-3' is 3'-TACGG-5'. This antiparallel arrangement is fundamental to double-helix structure. DNA Structure and Replication - Nature Education
Which enzyme joins Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand during DNA replication?
Primase
DNA polymerase III
DNA ligase
Topoisomerase
DNA ligase catalyzes the formation of phosphodiester bonds between adjacent Okazaki fragments, sealing nicks in the sugar-phosphate backbone. This action completes synthesis of the lagging strand. Without ligase, fragments would remain discontinuous. DNA Replication Enzymes - NCBI Bookshelf
Okazaki fragments are synthesized on which strand during DNA replication?
Leading strand
Lagging strand
RNA strand
Template strand
The lagging strand is synthesized discontinuously in short segments called Okazaki fragments, which are later joined by DNA ligase. In contrast, the leading strand is synthesized continuously. This mechanism is due to the antiparallel orientation of DNA strands. Okazaki Fragment - Wikipedia
What does the G0 phase represent in the cell cycle?
A checkpoint between G1 and S
A phase of DNA synthesis
A resting, non-dividing state
The phase of cell division
G0 is a quiescent phase where cells exit the active cell cycle and stop dividing. Cells in G0 may perform specialized functions or remain dormant until stimulated to re-enter G1. Many neurons and muscle cells are found in G0. Cell Cycle and Quiescence - PMC
What is the primary role of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) in the cell cycle?
Phosphorylating target proteins
Sealing DNA nicks
Unwinding DNA
Degrading cyclins
Cyclin-dependent kinases phosphorylate specific proteins to drive cell cycle transitions, such as entry into S phase or mitosis. Their activity is regulated by binding to cyclins, whose levels fluctuate throughout the cycle. CDK phosphorylation triggers progression through key checkpoints. CDK - Britannica
Which checkpoint ensures DNA is undamaged before entry into S phase?
Metaphase checkpoint
G2/M checkpoint
G1/S checkpoint
Spindle assembly checkpoint
The G1/S checkpoint (also called the restriction point) verifies DNA integrity before DNA synthesis. If damage is detected, the cycle is halted to allow repair or to trigger apoptosis. This checkpoint is regulated by p53, retinoblastoma protein, and CDK inhibitors. Cell Cycle Checkpoints - NCBI Bookshelf
What serves as the RNA template for telomerase during telomere elongation?
TERRA
TRF1
TERT
TERC
Telomerase contains an RNA component called TERC (telomerase RNA component) that provides a template for adding telomeric repeats to chromosome ends. The protein component TERT (telomerase reverse transcriptase) extends DNA using this RNA template. This mechanism prevents telomere shortening. Telomerase Components - PMC
The origin recognition complex (ORC) in eukaryotes binds to replication origins during which cell cycle phase?
S phase
G1 phase
M phase
G2 phase
The ORC binds to origins of replication in late M phase and throughout G1 to license DNA for replication. Loading of additional factors in G1 completes the pre-replication complex formation. This licensing ensures each origin fires only once per cycle. DNA Replication Origins - NCBI Bookshelf
Which statement correctly describes synthesis of the leading DNA strand?
Synthesized towards the replication fork continuously
Requires DNA ligase for extension
Synthesized away from the replication fork
Synthesized in Okazaki fragments
The leading strand is synthesized continuously in the 5' to 3' direction toward the replication fork by DNA polymerase. It requires only one RNA primer for initiation. In contrast, the lagging strand is made in Okazaki fragments. DNA Replication - Wikipedia
Which enzyme activity removes RNA primers from Okazaki fragments in prokaryotes?
Primase
DNA polymerase III 3'-5' exonuclease
DNA polymerase I 5'-3' exonuclease
DNA ligase
DNA polymerase I in bacteria has 5'-3' exonuclease activity that removes RNA primers and fills in the gaps with DNA. It also has 3'-5' proofreading exonuclease activity. DNA polymerase III synthesizes the bulk of the new DNA strands. Bacterial DNA Polymerases - NCBI Bookshelf
What distinguishes eukaryotic DNA replication from prokaryotic replication?
Single origin of replication
Lack of Okazaki fragments
Bidirectional replication
Multiple origins of replication
Eukaryotic chromosomes are large and linear, requiring multiple replication origins to complete DNA synthesis in a timely manner. Prokaryotes typically have a single circular origin. Both systems replicate bidirectionally and use Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand. Eukaryotic DNA Replication - NCBI Bookshelf
Which checkpoint prevents anaphase onset until all chromosomes are properly attached to the spindle?
G2/M checkpoint
DNA damage checkpoint
G1/S checkpoint
Spindle assembly checkpoint
The spindle assembly checkpoint (also called the metaphase checkpoint) ensures that all kinetochores are properly attached to spindle microtubules before anaphase begins. This prevents unequal chromosome segregation. Proteins like Mad2 inhibit the anaphase-promoting complex until attachment is complete. Spindle Assembly Checkpoint - NCBI Bookshelf
Which cyclin-CDK complex triggers the G1/S transition and initiation of DNA replication?
Cyclin B - Cdk1
Cyclin A - Cdk1
Cyclin D - Cdk4
Cyclin E - Cdk2
Cyclin E binds to Cdk2 at the G1/S boundary, phosphorylating substrates that drive the cell into S phase and promote origin firing for DNA replication. Cyclin D - Cdk4/6 acts earlier in G1, while Cyclin A - Cdk2 functions during S phase. Cyclin B - Cdk1 controls mitotic entry. Cyclin E - Cdk2 Function - PMC
Which protein prevents re-replication of DNA origins within a single cell cycle by inhibiting Cdt1?
Geminin
Cohesin
RFC
p53
Geminin binds to the replication licensing factor Cdt1 after S phase begins, preventing the loading of the MCM helicase complex at licensed origins and thereby blocking re-initiation of replication. Geminin is degraded in mitosis, allowing licensing in the next G1. Geminin and Cdt1 Regulation - PMC
What is the primary role of topoisomerase II during DNA replication?
Cutting both DNA strands to manage tangles
Cutting one DNA strand to relieve supercoils
Unwinding the helix without cutting
Sealing nicks after primer removal
Topoisomerase II makes transient double-strand breaks to untangle intertwined DNA (decatenation) and relieve torsional strain ahead of the replication fork. It then reseals the breaks. This activity is crucial for proper chromosome segregation. Topoisomerase II Function - NCBI Bookshelf
The telomerase enzyme is composed of TERT and which other component?
TERC RNA
Shelterin complex
TRF2 protein
DNA primase
Telomerase consists of the catalytic reverse transcriptase subunit (TERT) and an RNA component (TERC) that serves as the template for adding telomeric repeats. Together, they maintain chromosome ends in germline and stem cells. Telomerase Structure - PMC
What is the function of the MCM complex in eukaryotic DNA replication?
Acting as the replicative helicase
Proofreading new DNA
Priming DNA synthesis
Sealing Okazaki fragments
The MCM (minichromosome maintenance) complex is the eukaryotic replicative helicase that unwinds DNA at replication forks. It is loaded onto origins in G1 and activated in S phase. Without MCM, replication forks cannot progress. MCM Helicase - NCBI Bookshelf
Replication forks in eukaryotic chromosomes move in what manner?
Only during mitosis
Unidirectionally from each origin
Bidirectionally from each origin
Randomly in multiple directions
Eukaryotic DNA replication initiates at multiple origins, with each replication bubble expanding bidirectionally as two replication forks move away from the origin. This increases the speed and efficiency of genome duplication. DNA Replication in Eukaryotes - NCBI Bookshelf
ATR kinase is primarily activated in response to which type of DNA structure during replication stress?
DNA-RNA hybrids
Double-stranded breaks
Single-stranded DNA regions
DNA-DNA crosslinks
ATR kinase responds to stretches of single-stranded DNA coated with RPA, which occur at stalled replication forks or resected DNA breaks. ATR activation stabilizes forks and coordinates DNA repair. This checkpoint prevents collapse of replication forks under stress. ATR and Replication Stress - NCBI Bookshelf
Which cyclin is targeted for ubiquitin-mediated destruction by the anaphase-promoting complex to allow exit from mitosis?
Cyclin A
Cyclin B
Cyclin D
Cyclin E
The anaphase-promoting complex (APC/C) ubiquitinates cyclin B, marking it for proteasomal degradation, which inactivates Cdk1 and allows the cell to exit mitosis. Cyclin A is degraded earlier in mitosis, while D and E act in interphase. APC/C and Mitotic Exit - NCBI Bookshelf
During S phase, Cdc6 is inactivated to prevent re-licensing of origins by which mechanism?
Acetylation by SIRT1
Binding of geminin
Methylation by DNMT1
Phosphorylation and SCF-mediated degradation
Cdc6 is phosphorylated by CDKs during S phase and targeted for ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis by the SCF complex, preventing re-loading of the MCM helicase and ensuring origins fire only once per cycle. This tightly controls replication licensing. Cdc6 Regulation - PMC
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Study Outcomes

  1. Identify Cell Cycle Phases -

    Understand each stage of the cell cycle, including G1, S, G2, and M, and recognize their defining cellular events.

  2. Explain DNA Replication Mechanisms -

    Describe the key molecular steps and enzymes involved in DNA replication, reinforcing concepts from a DNA replication quiz.

  3. Compare Mitosis vs Meiosis -

    Analyze the similarities and differences between mitosis and meiosis, clarifying how cell division outcomes vary in each process.

  4. Apply Cell Division Knowledge -

    Use quiz questions to classify and apply concepts of cell division, strengthening your ability to answer cell division quiz challenges.

  5. Evaluate Cell Cycle Checkpoints -

    Assess the role of checkpoints in regulating cell cycle progression and their importance in maintaining genetic integrity.

  6. Excel in the Cell Cycle DNA Quiz -

    Apply your comprehensive understanding of both cell cycle phases and DNA replication to maximize your score in the cell cycle dna quiz.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Cell cycle phases overview -

    The cell cycle comprises G₝, S, G₂, and M phases, each regulating growth, DNA synthesis, and division. Remember the mnemonic "Go Sally Go Make Cookies" to recall G₝ → S → G₂ → M. In a cell cycle phases quiz, focus on checkpoints at G₝/S and G₂/M to ensure genomic integrity.

  2. S-phase and DNA replication machinery -

    During S-phase, DNA replicates semi-conservatively using helicase to unwind the helix and DNA polymerase to synthesize new strands in the 5′→3′ direction. A handy trick is "Helicase Hears, Polymerase Prays, Ligase Links" to remember helicase, polymerase, and ligase roles. In a DNA replication quiz, expect questions on the Meselson-Stahl experiment that confirmed strand segregation.

  3. Mitosis vs. Meiosis distinctions -

    Mitosis yields two identical diploid cells in one division, whereas meiosis produces four unique haploid gametes over two sequential divisions. Use "PMAT twice for Meiosis" to recall Prophase I - IV and Prophase II - Telophase II. A mitosis vs meiosis quiz often tests on homologous pairing and crossing-over events in Prophase I.

  4. Cell cycle control by cyclins and CDKs -

    Cyclins bind cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) to phosphorylate targets and drive cycle transitions, for example, Cyclin B/CDK1 triggers mitotic entry. Think of the formula Cyclin + CDK → Active kinase to remember that complex formation activates progression. In a cell division quiz, identify how p53 activation halts the cycle at G₝ after DNA damage.

  5. Origins of replication & semi-conservative model -

    DNA replication begins at specific origins where the origin recognition complex (ORC) recruits MCM helicase and primase to load replication forks. The Meselson-Stahl density gradient experiment is the classic proof of semi-conservative replication, showing one parental and one daughter strand per new DNA. In our cell cycle DNA quiz, match ORC, MCM, and primase functions to solidify your understanding.

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