Cell Cycle & 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 and the mitotic phase.

Front

What are the main phases of the cell cycle?

Back

The main phases of the cell cycle are Interphase (G1, S, G2) and the Mitotic phase (Mitosis and Cytokinesis).

Front

What happens during Interphase?

Back

Interphase is the phase where the cell grows, duplicates its DNA, and prepares for mitosis. It consists of G1 (growth), S (DNA 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. It includes 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 mitotic spindle begins to form.

Front

What occurs 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 occurs during Anaphase?

Back

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

Front

What occurs during Telophase?

Back

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

Front

What is Cytokinesis?

Back

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

Front

Is Interphase part of Mitosis?

Back

No, Interphase occurs before mitosis and is not considered part of the mitotic phase.