Science (086) — AI-generated practice question

Amoeba is a relatively simple cell with no fixed internal organisation, so it can split in any plane during binary fission. Leishmania, however, possesses a whip-like structure (flagellum) at one end, indicating a more organised body structure. Because of this structural complexity, its binary fission must occur in a definite orientation relative to that structure to ensure both daughter cells are properly formed.

This reveals that greater structural complexity in a cell imposes constraints on how division can occur — the more organised a cell's body, the more controlled and orientation-specific its fission must be.

Source: Chapter 7 — How do Organisms Reproduce?, Section 7.2.1 Fission

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Examiners look for three things here (1 mark each):

1. Amoeba — simple structure → no fixed plane of division.
2. Leishmania — has a flagellum (whip-like structure) → division in a definite orientation.
3. The inference/conclusion: structural complexity determines/constrains the mode of binary fission.

Avoid writing general definitions of binary fission. Focus on the contrast and the reason behind it. The word "definite orientation" from the textbook is key — use it.