Cell Cycle (Mitosis)

Prokaryotic Reproduction

A method by which prokaryotic organisms, such as bacteria, reproduce asexually through a process called binary fission, resulting in two genetically identical offspring.

Binary Fission

A type of asexual reproduction in prokaryotes where the organism duplicates its genetic material and divides into two new cells, each identical to the original.

Prokaryotic Reproduction

A method by which prokaryotic organisms, such as bacteria, reproduce asexually through a process called binary fission, resulting in two genetically identical offspring.

Binary Fission

A type of asexual reproduction in prokaryotes where the organism duplicates its genetic material and divides into two new cells, each identical to the original.

Chromatid

One of the two identical halves of a duplicated chromosome, formed when DNA is replicated before cell division, which later separates during cell division.

Centromere

The constricted region of a chromosome that holds together two sister chromatids, important for proper chromosome segregation during cell division.

Diploid (2n)

Referring to cells that contain two complete sets of chromosomes, one inherited from each parent, typical of somatic cells like skin and muscle.

Haploid (n)

Describing cells that contain only one set of chromosomes, such as gametes (sperm and egg cells) in sexually reproducing organisms.

Karyotype

A photographic or digital display of an organism’s complete set of chromosomes, arranged in pairs based on their size, shape, and number, used for genetic analysis.

Somatic Cells

Any body cells in a multicellular organism that are not involved in reproduction; these cells are diploid and include a variety of tissues such as skin, blood, and organs.

Mitotic Phase

The phase of the cell cycle where mitosis occurs, leading to the division of the mother cell into two genetically identical daughter cells.

S Phase

The specific phase of the cell cycle during which DNA synthesis occurs, resulting in the duplication of chromosomes before cell division.

G1 Phase

The initial phase of interphase in the cell cycle where the cell grows, increases its size, and synthesizes proteins necessary for DNA replication.

G2 Phase

The phase of interphase following DNA synthesis where the cell continues to grow and prepares for mitosis, ensuring all components are ready for division.

Interphase

The lengthy phase of the cell cycle that comprises G1, S, and G2 phases, during which the cell prepares for division and carries out its normal functions.

Prophase

The first and longest stage of mitosis, during which chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and spindle fibers begin to form.

Metaphase

The brief and crucial stage of mitosis where chromosomes align along the equatorial plane of the cell, ensuring they are properly positioned for separation.

Anaphase

The phase of mitosis characterized by the splitting of centromeres and the movement of sister chromatids toward opposite poles of the cell.

Telophase

The final stage of mitosis in which chromosomes reach the poles and start to de-condense back into chromatin, while the nuclear envelope reforms around each set of chromosomes.

Cytokinesis

The process that follows mitosis, resulting in the physical separation of the cytoplasm and organelles of a parental cell into two distinct daughter cells.

G0 Phase

A resting phase of the cell cycle in which cells exit the active cycle and do not prepare to divide; cells may remain in this phase until stimulated to re-enter the cycle.

Interphase Duration

Interphase occupies a significant portion of the cell cycle, approximately 95%, and is crucial for cellular growth and preparation for division.

Genetically Diverse Offspring

Offspring produced through genetic processes such as mutations and independent assortment during cell division, resulting in varied traits among individuals.

Asexual Reproduction

A mode of reproduction that does not involve the fusion of gametes; organisms replicate their genetic material and divide into two new entities, exemplified by binary fission.

Cell Cycle Summary

An overview of the cell cycle, detailing the stages of growth (G1, S, G2) and division phases (mitosis and cytokinesis) that allow for cellular reproduction.