The 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 and the mitotic phase.

Front

What are the main stages of the cell cycle?

Back

The main stages of the cell cycle are Interphase (G1, S, G2) and the Mitotic phase (Mitosis and Cytokinesis).

Front

What happens during interphase?

Back

During interphase, the cell grows, duplicates its DNA, and prepares for mitosis. It consists of three phases: G1 (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 stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

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What is cytokinesis?

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

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What is the role of spindle fibers during mitosis?

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Spindle fibers are structures that pull apart the chromatids during mitosis, ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.

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What are chromosomes?

Back

Chromosomes are thread-like structures made of DNA and proteins that contain genetic information. Humans have 46 chromosomes, organized into 23 pairs.

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What is a chromatid?

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A chromatid is one half of a duplicated chromosome. After DNA replication, each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids.

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What is the centromere?

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The centromere is the region of a chromosome where the two sister chromatids are joined together. It plays a crucial role during cell division.

Front

What is prophase?

Back

Prophase is the first stage of mitosis where the chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and spindle fibers begin to form.