If a cell possesses twice as much DNA as in the functional cell, the cell

Options

A. Is preparing to divide
B. Has completed division
C. Has ceased to function
D. Has reached end of its life span

Answer

To solve the question "If a cell possesses twice as much DNA as in the functional cell, the cell:", we need to analyze the stages of the cell cycle and understand the implications of having double the DNA content.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding DNA Content in the Cell Cycle**:
- The cell cycle consists of several phases: G1 (Gap 1), S (Synthesis), G2 (Gap 2), and M (Mitosis).
- In the G1 phase, the cell has a normal amount of DNA (diploid).
- During the S phase, DNA replication occurs, and the amount of DNA doubles (becoming tetraploid).
- In the G2 phase, the cell still has double the DNA content as it prepares for division.
- During the M phase, the DNA is separated into two daughter cells, returning to the diploid state.

2. **Identifying the Relevant Phase**:
- The question states that the cell has twice the DNA of a functional cell. This indicates that the cell is not in the M phase (where DNA is distributed) or G1 phase (where DNA content is normal).
- The only phases where the DNA content is doubled are the S phase (after replication) and the G2 phase (after replication but before division).

3. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Preparing to divide**: This is true because the cell is in the G2 phase, where it has double the DNA and is preparing for mitosis.
- **Has completed division**: This is false because if the cell had completed division, it would have returned to the normal DNA content.
- **Has ceased to function**: This is also false; a cell can still function with double the DNA.
- **Has reached the end of its lifespan**: This is incorrect as well; the cell's lifespan does not correlate with having double the DNA.

4. **Conclusion**:
- The correct answer is that the cell is "preparing to divide."

### Final Answer:
The cell is preparing to divide.