Flashcard - Cell Cycle

Front

What is the cell cycle?

Back

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

Front

During which phase of the cell cycle does the cell spend the most time?

Back

Interphase.

Front

What are the three stages of interphase?

Back

The three stages of interphase are G1 (Gap 1), S (Synthesis), and G2 (Gap 2).

Front

What happens during the G1 phase of interphase?

Back

During the G1 phase, the cell grows and synthesizes proteins necessary for DNA replication.

Front

What occurs during the S phase of interphase?

Back

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

Front

What is the purpose of the G2 phase in interphase?

Back

The G2 phase prepares the cell for mitosis by ensuring all DNA is replicated and checking for errors.

Front

What is mitosis?

Back

Mitosis is the process of nuclear division that results in two identical daughter cells, each with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

Front

What are the four main stages of mitosis?

Back

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

Front

What is cytokinesis?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of checkpoints in the cell cycle?

Back

Checkpoints are control mechanisms that ensure the cell cycle progresses correctly and that any errors are repaired before division.