Mitosis and Cell Division

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What is mitosis?

Mitosis is a process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell.

What are the main stages of mitosis?

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

What happens during prophase?

During prophase, chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, and the nuclear membrane begins to disintegrate.

Explain metaphase.

In metaphase, chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell, attached to the spindle fibers.

What occurs during anaphase?

During anaphase, sister chromatids separate and move to opposite poles of the cell.

Describe telophase.

In telophase, the chromosomes reach the cell poles, and the nuclear membrane re-forms around each new set of chromosomes.

What is cytokinesis?

Cytokinesis is the division of the cytoplasm, resulting in two separate daughter cells.

How does mitosis differ from meiosis?

Mitosis results in two identical daughter cells, while meiosis results in four genetically diverse gametes.

What is the purpose of mitosis?

The purpose of mitosis is to enable growth, repair damaged tissues, and produce identical cells for replacement.

What is the importance of spindle fibers?

Spindle fibers are structures that help separate chromatids to opposite poles during cell division.

How does cell division contribute to tissue repair?

Cell division replaces damaged or dead cells, facilitating tissue repair and regeneration.

What would happen if mitosis did not occur correctly?

Incorrect mitosis could lead to cell death or diseases like cancer, due to improper chromosome distribution.

Why is cell cycle regulation important in mitosis?

Regulation ensures that cells only divide when necessary and under the right conditions, preventing errors.

How does apoptosis relate to mitosis?

Apoptosis is a process of programmed cell death, while mitosis is cell division; both are crucial for organism health.

What role do centromeres play in mitosis?

Centromeres are regions where spindle fibers attach to separate chromatids during cell division.

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