Cell Cycle & Cell Division

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What is the cell cycle?

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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).

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What happens during interphase?

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

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What is mitosis?

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Mitosis is the process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells. It consists of four main stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

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What occurs during prophase?

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

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What occurs during metaphase?

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

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What occurs during anaphase?

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During anaphase, sister chromatids are pulled apart and move toward opposite poles of the cell.

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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.

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What is cytokinesis?

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Cytokinesis is the process that follows mitosis, where the cytoplasm of a parental cell divides into two daughter cells.

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What are chromosomes?

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Chromosomes are structures made of DNA and protein that contain genetic information. They are visible during cell division.

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What is a centriole?

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Centrioles are cylindrical structures that help organize the assembly of spindle fibers during cell division.