Cell Cycle and Mitosis

Front

What is the cell cycle?

Back

The cell cycle is the series of phases that a cell goes through to grow and divide, including interphase (G1, S, G2) and mitotic phase (mitosis and cytokinesis).

Front

What happens during the S phase of the cell cycle?

Back

During the S phase, DNA is replicated, resulting in two identical sets of chromosomes for the daughter cells.

Front

Why is DNA replication important?

Back

DNA replication is crucial because it ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes, maintaining genetic consistency.

Front

What occurs during prophase of mitosis?

Back

During prophase, chromosomes condense and become visible, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and spindle fibers begin to form.

Front

What is metaphase in mitosis?

Back

Metaphase is the stage where chromosomes align in the middle of the cell, and spindle fibers attach to the centromeres.

Front

What happens during anaphase?

Back

In anaphase, sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite sides of the cell by the spindle fibers.

Front

What is telophase?

Back

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

Front

What is cytokinesis?

Back

Cytokinesis is the process that follows mitosis, where the cytoplasm divides, resulting in two separate daughter cells.

Front

What are sister chromatids?

Back

Sister chromatids are identical copies of a chromosome, connected at the centromere, formed during DNA replication.

Front

What role do spindle fibers play in mitosis?

Back

Spindle fibers help separate the sister chromatids and pull them to opposite poles of the cell during anaphase.