genes and mitosis

Front

What is mitosis?

Back

Mitosis is the process by which a single cell divides to produce two identical daughter cells, ensuring that each new cell has the same number of chromosomes as the original cell.

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What are chromosomes?

Back

Chromosomes are long, thread-like structures made of DNA and proteins that contain genetic information. They are found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells.

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What is DNA?

Back

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the molecule that carries the genetic instructions for life. It is composed of two strands that coil around each other to form a double helix.

Front

What is a centromere?

Back

A centromere is the region of a chromosome where the two sister chromatids are joined together. It plays a crucial role during cell division.

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What is a chromatid?

Back

A chromatid is one half of a duplicated chromosome. After DNA replication, each chromosome consists of two identical sister chromatids.

Front

What is the role of DNA in cells?

Back

DNA contains the instructions for building proteins, which are essential for the structure and function of cells.

Front

What happens 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 occurs during metaphase?

Back

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

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What is anaphase?

Back

Anaphase is the stage of mitosis where sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell, ensuring each new cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes.

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What is telophase?

Back

Telophase is the final stage of mitosis where the chromosomes reach the poles, the nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, and the cell begins to divide.