Concept 12.2

Interphase

The first major part of the cell cycle.

Mitotic (M) phase

The second major part of the cell cycle.

G₁ phase

The phase where the cell grows and makes proteins.

S phase

The phase where DNA is replicated; each chromosome now has two sister chromatids.

G₂ phase

The phase where the cell prepares for mitosis by making proteins and duplicating organelles.

M phase

The part of the cell cycle that includes mitosis and cytokinesis.

Mitosis

The division of the nucleus and its genetic material.

Cytokinesis

The division of the cytoplasm, resulting in two separate cells.

Prophase

The stage where chromosomes condense, and the mitotic spindle begins to form.

Prometaphase

The stage where the nuclear envelope breaks down, and spindle fibers attach to kinetochores.

Metaphase

The stage where chromosomes align at the metaphase plate.

Anaphase

The stage where sister chromatids separate and move to opposite poles.

Telophase

The stage where chromosomes de-condense, and two new nuclei form.

Cytokinesis in animal cells

Animal cells form a cleavage furrow.

Cytokinesis in plant cells

Plant cells form a cell plate.

Importance of interphase

It prepares the cell for division by growing and replicating DNA.