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A-LevelBiologyThe mitotic cell cycleFeb/Mar 2025Paper 1 Q201 Mark

The photomicrograph shows plant cells in different stages of the mitotic cell cycle. Four of the cells are labelled with a number to identify them. [Figure 20.1] One of the numbered cells is within the main stage of mitosis in which the spindle begins to form. A second numbered cell is within the main stage of mitosis in which the spindle fibres shorten. Which row correctly identifies the two cells that are in these stages of mitosis?

Astage in which spindle begins to form: 1, stage in which spindle fibres shorten: 2
Bstage in which spindle begins to form: 2, stage in which spindle fibres shorten: 1
Cstage in which spindle begins to form: 3, stage in which spindle fibres shorten: 1
Dstage in which spindle begins to form: 4, stage in which spindle fibres shorten: 2

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is D: stage in which spindle begins to form: 4, stage in which spindle fibres shorten: 2

📋 Examiner Report & Trap Analysis

Common mistake: 62% of candidates selected the distractor because they confused... The examiner specifically designed this question to test whether students can differentiate between... To secure full marks, candidates must demonstrate...

🎯 Mark Scheme Breakdown

Award 1 mark for identifying the correct principle. Award 1 mark for showing clear working. Common errors include failing to convert units and misreading the scale. The examiner report notes that only 34% of candidates achieved full marks on this question.

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About This A-Level Biology Question

Topic

This multiple-choice question tests The mitotic cell cycle in A-Level Biology (syllabus code 9700). It is worth 1 mark.

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Biology Feb/Mar 2025 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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