Mitosis is the process of cell division in which one cell divides into two identical daughter cells.
What are the stages of the cell cycle?
The stages of the cell cycle are interphase, prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase, and cytokinesis.
What happens during interphase?
Interphase is the longest phase of the cell cycle where the cell grows, replicates its DNA, and prepares for division.
What occurs during prophase?
During prophase, the chromosomes condense, the nuclear membrane breaks down, and spindle fibers form.
What happens during metaphase?
During metaphase, the chromosomes line up at the center of the cell and attach to spindle fibers.
What occurs during anaphase?
During anaphase, the sister chromatids separate and move towards opposite ends of the cell.
What happens during telophase?
During telophase, the chromosomes reach the opposite poles of the cell, the nuclear membrane reforms, and the cytoplasm starts to divide.
What is cytokinesis?
Cytokinesis is the final stage of the cell cycle where the cytoplasm divides, resulting in two daughter cells.
Why is mitosis important?
Mitosis is important for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction.
What happens if cell division is not properly regulated?
Uncontrolled cell division can lead to the formation of tumors and cancer.
What is the role of spindle fibers in mitosis?
Spindle fibers help separate the sister chromatids during anaphase and ensure their proper distribution to the daughter cells.
When does DNA replication occur?
DNA replication occurs during the S phase of interphase.
What is the purpose of the cell cycle checkpoints?
Cell cycle checkpoints ensure that the cell is ready to proceed to the next phase and helps prevent the formation of abnormal cells.
What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis?
Mitosis results in two daughter cells with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell, while meiosis results in four daughter cells with half the number of chromosomes.
What is the function of centrioles in mitosis?
Centrioles help organize the spindle fibers and play a role in cell division.