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 phases: interphase, 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 sub-phases: G1 (growth), S (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, each with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

Front

What are the stages of mitosis?

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The stages of mitosis are prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

Front

What occurs during prophase?

Back

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

Front

What occurs during metaphase?

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

Front

What occurs during anaphase?

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

Front

What occurs during telophase?

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During telophase, the chromosomes reach the poles, the nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, and the chromosomes begin to de-condense.

Front

What is cytokinesis?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of DNA in the cell cycle?

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DNA carries the genetic information necessary for the growth, development, and functioning of living organisms. It is replicated during the S phase of interphase.