Cell Cycle

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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 interphase (G1, S, G2) and the mitotic phase (mitosis and cytokinesis).

Front

What are the main phases of the cell cycle?

Back

The main phases of the cell cycle are Interphase (G1, S, G2) and the Mitotic phase (M phase), which includes mitosis and cytokinesis.

Front

What occurs during interphase?

Back

During interphase, the cell grows (G1), duplicates its DNA (S), and prepares for mitosis (G2).

Front

What is mitosis?

Back

Mitosis is the process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells, consisting of several phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

Front

What is cytokinesis?

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Cytokinesis is the final stage of cell division where the cytoplasm of a parental cell is divided into two daughter cells.

Front

What happens during prophase?

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

Front

What happens during metaphase?

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During metaphase, chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plane, and spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes.

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What happens during anaphase?

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During anaphase, sister chromatids are pulled apart toward opposite poles of the cell by the spindle fibers.

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What happens during telophase?

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During telophase, the 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 the difference between mitosis and cytokinesis?

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Mitosis is the division of the nucleus, while cytokinesis is the division of the cytoplasm, resulting in two separate cells.