Notes on Cell Cycle and Mitosis

A collection of vocabulary terms and definitions related to the cell cycle and mitosis.

Cell Cycle

The series of events that take place in a cell leading to its division and replication.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where the cell prepares for division, consisting of G1, S, and G2 phases.

Mitosis

A process where a single cell divides into two identical daughter cells, each with the same number of chromosomes as the original.

G1 Phase

The first phase of interphase where the cell grows and performs its normal functions.

S Phase

The phase of interphase where DNA is replicated to prepare for cell division.

G2 Phase

The second gap phase of interphase where the cell continues to grow and prepares for mitosis.

Prophase

The first stage of mitosis where chromatin condenses into chromosomes and the mitotic spindle begins to form.

Metaphase

The stage of mitosis where chromosomes align along the metaphase plate.

Anaphase

The phase of mitosis where sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell.

Telophase

The final stage of mitosis where the chromosomes arrive at the poles and the cell begins to divide.

Cytokinesis

The process that follows mitosis, where the cytoplasm of a parental cell divides into two daughter cells.