Which statement about the daughter cells following mitosis and cytokinesis is correct? a. They are genetically different from each other and from the parent cell. b. They are genetically identical to each other and to the parent cell. c. They are genetically identical to each other but different from the parent cell. d. Only one of the two daughter cells is genetically identical to the parent cell.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process of mitosis: Mitosis is a type of cell division where a single cell divides to produce two new daughter cells that are genetically identical to each other and to the original parent cell.
2. Review the genetic outcome of mitosis: The purpose of mitosis is to distribute identical sets of chromosomes to each of the two daughter cells. This ensures that both cells have the same genetic information as the parent cell.
3. Analyze the answer choices in relation to the mitosis process: Option (a) suggests genetic differences among all cells, which contradicts the purpose of mitosis. Option (d) suggests that only one daughter cell is identical to the parent, which is incorrect as both should be identical.
4. Consider the implications of cytokinesis: Cytokinesis is the process that follows mitosis, where the cell's cytoplasm divides, creating two separate cells. This process does not alter the genetic makeup, which remains identical to the parent cell.
5. Conclude with the correct answer: Based on the understanding of mitosis and cytokinesis, the correct answer is (b) - 'They are genetically identical to each other and to the parent cell.' This reflects the fundamental outcome of mitosis where the genetic material is equally and identically distributed to each daughter cell.