Cell Division

Front

What is the cell cycle?

Back

The cell cycle is the series of events that take place in a cell leading to its division and duplication (replication). It consists of phases: interphase (G1, S, G2) and mitotic phase (M).

Front

What occurs during prophase?

Back

During prophase, chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and the mitotic spindle begins to form.

Front

What happens during metaphase?

Back

During metaphase, chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plane, known as the metaphase plate, and are attached to spindle fibers.

Front

What is anaphase?

Back

Anaphase is the stage of mitosis where sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell.

Front

What occurs during telophase?

Back

During telophase, chromosomes de-condense back into chromatin, the nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, and the cell prepares to divide.

Front

What is cytokinesis?

Back

Cytokinesis is the process that follows mitosis, where the cytoplasm of a parental cell divides into two daughter cells.

Front

What is the significance of the G1 phase?

Back

The G1 phase is the first stage of interphase where the cell grows, synthesizes proteins, and prepares for DNA replication.

Front

What occurs during the S phase of the cell cycle?

Back

During the S phase, DNA replication occurs, resulting in the duplication of chromosomes.

Front

What is the role of the mitotic spindle?

Back

The mitotic spindle is a structure made of microtubules that segregates chromosomes into the daughter cells during mitosis.

Front

What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis?

Back

Mitosis results in two identical daughter cells, while meiosis produces four genetically diverse gametes.