is the process of cell division or growing more cells. Before a cell can divide, it must
interphase
its DNA. Prior to replicating the DNA, the chromosomes grow and prepare themselves for DNA replication in the
G1
phase. The chromosomes replicate themselves in the S or
phase of the cell cycle. After the S phase, the cell goes through the
phase where it prepares itself for mitosis. The G1, S, and G2 stages are collectively called
. The first stage of mitosis involves the condensing of chromosomes and the disappearance of the nuclear envelope; this stages is known as
. In the
stage, the sister chromatids align on an equatorial plate. The sister chromatids separate and each chromosome moves to an opposite pole during
. During
, the chromatin expands, the nuclear envelope reappears, and the two nuclei appear in the cell. During
, the cytoplasm divides, and the cell splits into two cells. Mitosis occurs in eukaryotic cells; a similar process called
occurs in prokaryotic cells.
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Mitosis is the process of cell division, which involves the replication and division of the genetic material (DNA) within the cell. In eukaryotic cells, mitosis is a key part of the cell cycle, which consists of various stages.
Before a cell can divide, it goes through a stage called interphase. During interphase, the cell prepares itself for division by growing and replicating its DNA. This process occurs in three stages: G1, S, and G2.
In the G1 phase, the cell grows and prepares itself for DNA replication. The chromosomes within the cell also grow and prepare themselves for replication.
During the S phase, DNA replication occurs. The chromosomes replicate themselves, resulting in two identical copies of each chromosome, known as sister chromatids.
After the S phase, the cell enters the G2 phase, where it further prepares itself for mitosis. This includes completing any necessary cell growth and ensuring the DNA replication was successful.
Collectively, the G1, S, and G2 stages are referred to as interphase.
Once interphase is complete, the cell enters mitosis. Mitosis consists of several stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase, and cytokinesis.
During prophase, the chromosomes condense and become visible under a microscope. The nuclear envelope also disappears during this stage.
In metaphase, the sister chromatids align themselves along the center of the cell, forming an equatorial plate.
During anaphase, the sister chromatids separate and move towards opposite poles of the cell. This is facilitated by the shortening and elongation of microtubules, which attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes.
In telophase, the chromosomes reach their respective poles and begin to decondense. The nuclear envelope reappears around each set of chromosomes, forming two distinct nuclei within the cell.
Finally, cytokinesis occurs, dividing the cytoplasm of the cell. This results in the formation of two daughter cells, each with a complete set of chromosomes.
It's important to note that mitosis specifically occurs in eukaryotic cells. In prokaryotic cells, a similar process called binary fission occurs, but it is not considered mitosis.