N/C ratio after cell division

Options

A. increases
B. decreases
C. remains same
D. first decreases and then increases

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the N/C Ratio**:
The nuclear-cytoplasmic (N/C) ratio is defined as the ratio of the size of the nucleus to the size of the cytoplasm in a cell. It can also be referred to as the karyoplasmic index.

2. **Formula for N/C Ratio**:
The N/C ratio can be mathematically expressed as:
\[ \text{Karyoplasmic Index} = \frac{V_N}{V_C - V_N} \]
where \(V_N\) is the volume of the nucleus and \(V_C\) is the total volume of the cell.

3. **Importance of N/C Ratio**:
The N/C ratio is significant as it indicates the maturity of the cell and reflects the metabolic activities managed by the nucleus.

4. **Cell Division Process**:
During cell division, two main processes occur:
- **Karyokinesis**: This is the division of the nucleus.
- **Cytokinesis**: This is the division of the cytoplasm.

5. **Effect on N/C Ratio During Division**:
When a cell divides:
- The nucleus divides (karyokinesis), which increases the number of nuclei.
- The cytoplasm also divides (cytokinesis), but the increase in the number of nuclei leads to a relatively larger nucleus compared to the cytoplasm.

6. **Conclusion on N/C Ratio After Division**:
After cell division, the N/C ratio increases because the volume of the nucleus increases relative to the volume of the cytoplasm. Thus, the correct answer to the question is that the N/C ratio **increases** after cell division.

### Final Answer:
The N/C ratio after cell division **increases**.

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