Mitosis Study Guide: Key Terms & Definitions in Biology

Interphase

Cell is preparing for division

90% of a cell's life is spent in interphase

Towards the end, DNA is duplicated

Prophase

• Nuclear membrane disappears

• Chromosome become visible

• Mitotic spindle forms

Metaphase

• Chromosomes line up in the middle

Anaphase

The chromatids separate and move to opposite sides of the cell

Telophase

Chromosomes cluster in the center of each new cell

Nuclear membrane begins to form

Cytokinesis

• Final step of cell cycle.

Cell membrane moves inward to create two daughter cells

Mitosis

cell division

Why is Mitosis important

1. Cell growth

2. Cell repair

3. Cell replacement

Chromosomes

threadlike structures made of DNA molecules that contain the genes

Centrioles

Cell organelle that aids in cell division in animal cells only