Cell Cycle and Mitosis Concepts

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 (G1, S, G2) and the mitotic phase (M).

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 happens during interphase?

Back

Interphase is the phase of the cell cycle where the cell prepares for division. It includes G1 (cell growth), S (DNA replication), and G2 (further growth and preparation for mitosis).

Front

What is the significance of the G1 phase?

Back

The G1 phase is the first gap phase of interphase where 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 replication occurs, resulting in the duplication of chromosomes.

Front

What is the role of the G2 phase?

Back

The G2 phase is the second gap phase where the cell continues to grow and prepares for mitosis by producing proteins and organelles.

Front

What are the stages of mitosis?

Back

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

Front

What occurs during prophase?

Back

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

Front

What happens during metaphase?

Back

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

Front

What is anaphase?

Back

Anaphase is the stage of mitosis where sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell.