cell cycle and mitosis

The cell cycle is the series of phases that a cell goes through to grow and divide, including interphase and the mitotic phase.

The three phases of interphase are G1 (Gap 1), S (Synthesis), and G2 (Gap 2).

During the S phase, DNA replication occurs, resulting in two identical sets of chromosomes.

Mitosis is the process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells.

The main stages of mitosis are prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

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

Metaphase is the stage of mitosis where chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plane.

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

Cytokinesis is the process that follows mitosis, where the cytoplasm divides, resulting in two separate daughter cells.

DNA replication is crucial to ensure that each daughter cell receives an identical set of genetic information.