The Cell Cycle and Mitosis

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What is the Cell Cycle?

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The Cell Cycle is the series of phases that a cell goes through to divide and replicate. It includes interphase (G1, S, G2) and mitotic phase (mitosis and cytokinesis).

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What happens during Interphase?

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Interphase is the phase of the cell cycle where the cell prepares for division. It consists of G1 (cell growth), S (DNA replication), and G2 (preparation for mitosis).

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What is Mitosis?

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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 are the stages of Mitosis?

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The stages of Mitosis are Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.

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What occurs during Prophase?

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During Prophase, the chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and the spindle apparatus begins to form.

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What occurs during Metaphase?

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During Metaphase, duplicated chromosomes line up at the cell's equator, and spindle fibers attach to the centromeres.

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What occurs during Anaphase?

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

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What occurs during Telophase?

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

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What is Cytokinesis?

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

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What is the significance of the S-phase?

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The S-phase is crucial because it is the phase where DNA is replicated, ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.