cell cycle and mitosis

Front

What is the cell cycle?

Back

The cell cycle is the series of phases that a cell goes through from its formation until it divides into two daughter cells. It includes interphase (G1, S, G2) and the mitotic phase (mitosis and cytokinesis).

Front

What happens during interphase?

Back

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

Front

Define 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 is a chromosome?

Back

A chromosome is a long, thread-like structure made of DNA and proteins that contains genetic information. Humans have 46 chromosomes in each somatic cell.

Front

What is a centromere?

Back

The centromere is the region of a chromosome where the two sister chromatids are joined together and where the spindle fibers attach during cell division.

Front

What occurs during prophase?

Back

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

Front

What is metaphase?

Back

Metaphase is the stage of mitosis where chromosomes align along the equatorial plane of the cell, and spindle fibers attach to the centromeres.

Front

Describe anaphase.

Back

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

Front

What happens during telophase?

Back

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 cell division where the cytoplasm divides, resulting in two separate daughter cells.