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 to its division into two daughter cells. It includes interphase (G1, S, G2) and the mitotic phase (mitosis and cytokinesis).

Front

What happens during the S phase of the cell cycle?

Back

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

Front

What is mitosis?

Back

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

Front

What are sister chromatids?

Back

Sister chromatids are two identical copies of a single chromosome, connected by a centromere, that are formed during DNA replication.

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 is metaphase?

Back

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

Front

What happens during anaphase?

Back

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

Front

What is telophase?

Back

Telophase is the final stage of mitosis where the chromosomes reach the poles, the nuclear envelope re-forms, and the chromosomes begin to de-condense.

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 cancer in relation to the cell cycle?

Back

Cancer is a disease characterized by uncontrolled cell division due to mutations that disrupt the normal regulation of the cell cycle.