Cell Cycle

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

Front

What happens during interphase?

Back

Interphase is the phase of the cell cycle where the cell grows, duplicates its DNA, and prepares for mitosis. It consists of three stages: G1 (cell growth), S (DNA synthesis), and G2 (preparation for mitosis).

Front

What is mitosis?

Back

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

Front

What occurs during prophase?

Back

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

Front

What is the S phase of interphase?

Back

The S phase (synthesis phase) is the part of interphase where DNA is replicated, resulting in two identical sets of chromosomes.

Front

What is cytokinesis?

Back

Cytokinesis is the final stage of cell division where the cytoplasm divides, resulting in two separate daughter cells.

Front

What happens during metaphase?

Back

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

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 is telophase?

Back

Telophase is the final stage of mitosis where the chromosomes de-condense back into chromatin, the nuclear envelope re-forms, and the cell prepares to divide.

Front

What is the role of the spindle fibers?

Back

Spindle fibers are structures that help separate chromosomes during mitosis by attaching to the centromeres and pulling them apart.