Mitosis | Cells | MCAT | Khan Academy

What is the process of mitosis primarily responsible for in a cell?

Mitosis is the process by which one nucleus divides to form two nuclei, each containing the original genetic information.

What happens during prophase of mitosis?

During prophase, the DNA condenses into visible chromosomes, the nuclear membrane starts to disappear, and centrosomes migrate to opposite sides of the cell.

What characterizes metaphase in mitosis?

In metaphase, the chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell with centrosomes at opposite ends.

What is the role of microtubules during cell division?

Microtubules extend from centrosomes to pull apart sister chromatids during anaphase.

How is anaphase defined in the context of mitosis?

Anaphase is the phase in which sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite sides of the cell, now considered independent chromosomes.

What begins to happen during telophase?

During telophase, nuclear membranes begin to form around the chromosomes, which start to unwind into chromatin.

What is cytokinesis and how is it related to mitosis?

Cytokinesis is the process that splits the cytoplasm and pinches the cell into two separate cells, occurring in parallel with telophase.

What are sister chromatids?

Sister chromatids are identical copies of a chromosome, connected at the centromere, formed after DNA replication.

What separates during cytokinesis?

Cytokinesis separates the cytoplasm and divides the entire cell into two distinct cells.

What happens to cells after cytokinesis?

After cytokinesis, each of the two new cells will enter interphase, undergo G1, S, and G2 phases, and prepare for another round of mitosis.