Question

which phrase best describes why a cell needs to replicate its dna?
a. so that future generations of cells will have more genetic variation
b. because cells need a new copy of dna in order to make proteins
c. so that daughter cells have identical copies of the genetic information
d. to maintain cell functions if the original copy of dna gets damaged

Explanation:

DNA replication occurs before cell division. The goal is to ensure that each daughter cell receives an identical copy of the genetic information. Genetic variation (Option A) mainly comes from processes like meiosis and mutation, not DNA replication. Proteins are made from the existing DNA (not a new copy as in Option B). While having a copy might seem useful if the original is damaged (Option D), the primary and evolutionary - conserved reason is for cell division.

Answer:

C. So that daughter cells have identical copies of the genetic information