Cell Cycle

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What is the cell cycle?

The cell cycle is the series of events that cells go through as they grow and divide.

What are the main phases of the cell cycle?

The main phases are interphase and the mitotic phase (M phase).

What happens during interphase?

During interphase, the cell grows, replicates its DNA, and prepares for mitosis. It includes G1, S, and G2 phases.

What occurs in the G1 phase of the cell cycle?

In the G1 phase, the cell grows and performs normal functions. It is also where it makes proteins needed for DNA replication.

What occurs in the S phase of the cell cycle?

During the S phase, the cell's DNA is replicated.

What occurs in the G2 phase of the cell cycle?

During the G2 phase, the cell continues to grow and produce proteins necessary for mitosis.

What is the mitotic phase in the cell cycle?

The mitotic phase (M phase) is when the cell divides into two daughter cells. It includes mitosis and cytokinesis.

What are the stages of mitosis?

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

What happens during prophase?

In prophase, the chromosomes condense, the nuclear membrane dissolves, and spindle fibers begin to form.

What occurs during metaphase?

Chromosomes line up at the cell's equator during metaphase.

What occurs during anaphase?

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

What occurs during telophase?

In telophase, the nuclear membrane re-forms around each set of chromosomes, which de-condense.

What is cytokinesis?

Cytokinesis is the process where the cytoplasm divides, resulting in two daughter cells.

How do plant and animal cells differ in cytokinesis?

In animal cells, a cleavage furrow forms to divide the cell, whereas plant cells form a cell plate that develops into a new cell wall.

Why is the cell cycle important?

The cell cycle is crucial for growth, repair, and cell reproduction in organisms.