Biology STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Practice Test

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Study for the Biology STAAR Test. Improve your skills with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question is accompanied by hints and explanations. Prepare for success!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

Why must DNA replication occur?

To produce energy for the cell
Before a cell can divide
To synthesize proteins for the cell
To repair damaged cells

The correct answer is: Before a cell can divide

DNA replication is essential before a cell can divide because it ensures that each daughter cell receives an exact copy of the genetic material. During the process of cell division, specifically during mitosis or meiosis, the cell duplicates its chromosomes, which are made of DNA. If DNA replication does not occur, the new cells would not have the complete set of genetic instructions necessary for their functions, leading to potential issues with growth, development, and overall cellular function. The replication process involves unwinding the double helix and synthesizing two new strands complementary to each original strand, ensuring that the genetic information is accurately passed on. This accuracy in replication is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the organism's genetic information throughout generations of cells. Hence, it is a vital step in cellular reproduction.