The Cell Cycle

Front

What is the cell cycle?

Back

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).

Front

What happens during interphase?

Back

Interphase is the phase of the cell cycle where the cell grows, duplicates its DNA, and prepares for mitosis. It includes 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 cytokinesis?

Back

Cytokinesis is the division of the cytoplasm of a parental cell into two daughter cells, occurring at the end of mitosis or meiosis.

Front

What occurs during prophase?

Back

During prophase, chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and spindle fibers begin 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 of the chromosomes.

Front

Describe anaphase.

Back

Anaphase is the stage of mitosis where sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell by the spindle fibers.

Front

What happens during telophase?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis?

Back

Mitosis results in two identical daughter cells, while meiosis results in four genetically diverse gametes with half the number of chromosomes.

Front

Define homologous chromosomes.

Back

Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes, one from each parent, that are similar in shape, size, and genetic content.