Cell Cycle and Mitosis Flashcard

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 mitosis.

Front

What are the main phases of mitosis?

Back

The main phases of mitosis are prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

Front

What happens during prophase?

Back

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

Front

What is metaphase?

Back

Metaphase is the stage of mitosis where chromosomes line up at the cell's equatorial plane and spindle fibers attach to their centromeres.

Front

What occurs during anaphase?

Back

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

Front

What is telophase?

Back

Telophase is the final stage of mitosis where the chromosomes de-condense, the nuclear envelope re-forms, and the spindle fibers disappear.

Front

What is cytokinesis?

Back

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

Front

Why is it important for sister chromatids to line up correctly during metaphase?

Back

Correct alignment ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes, preventing genetic abnormalities.

Front

What is the role of spindle fibers in mitosis?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of the G1 phase in the cell cycle?

Back

The G1 phase is crucial for cell growth and preparation for DNA replication.