Cytokinesis of mitosis is a process that ensures that

Analyze the question

The question asks what cytokinesis does in mitosis. The key is to separate cytokinesis from karyokinesis (nuclear division).

Explain the concept

• Karyokinesis is division of the nucleus (prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase). This is the stage that distributes the chromosomes, so each nucleus gets a complete set of genes.
• Cytokinesis is division of the cytoplasm, which usually begins in late anaphase or telophase. In animal cells a cleavage furrow forms. In plant cells a cell plate forms.
• During cytokinesis, the cytoplasm and its organelles (mitochondria, ribosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, chloroplasts, etc.) are shared between the two new cells, so each daughter cell can function on its own.

Evaluate the options

• A. Each daughter cell gets the necessary organelles. Correct. This is the direct result of dividing the cytoplasm.
• B. Distribution of a complete set of genes. This is done by mitosis proper (the nuclear division, with chromatids separating in anaphase), not by cytokinesis. It is a tempting option, but it describes karyokinesis.
• C. New genetic combinations. Mitosis produces genetically identical cells. New combinations come from meiosis (crossing over and independent assortment).
• D. Worn-out organelles excluded. No such selection happens. Cytoplasm is shared, and old organelles are removed by lysosomes, not by cell division.

Answer

Tip: Remember it this way: Karyokinesis = Kernel (nucleus/genes). Cytokinesis = Cytoplasm (organelles). If an option mentions genes or chromosomes, it is about nuclear division. If it mentions organelles or cytoplasm, it is about cytokinesis.