LAB 8: Mitotic Cell Cycle

Vocabulary study guide flashcards defining essential terms, phases, and cellular structures of the mitotic cell cycle.

Cell cycle

The repeating sequence of cellular growth and division consisting of interphase and the mitotic phase.

DNA replication

The biological process of copying a cell's DNA prior to cell division, which occurs specifically during the S phase of interphase.

Mitosis

The process of nuclear division in eukaryotic cells that separates replicated chromosomes into two genetically identical sets.

Parent cell

The original pre-division cell that undergoes division to produce daughter cells.

Daughter cell

A cell produced by the division of a parent cell, which is genetically identical to the parent cell in mitosis.

Chromatin

The relaxed, uncoiled complex of DNA and proteins found within the nucleus during interphase before condensation occurs.

Chromosome

A highly condensed, organized structure of DNA and protein that carries genetic information and becomes visible during mitosis.

Sister chromatids

Two identical copies of a single replicated chromosome that remain linked together at the centromere.

Centromere

The specialized, constricted region of a chromosome where sister chromatids are held together and where spindle fibers attach.

Centrioles

Paired cylindrical structures in animal cells that assist in organizing the assembly of spindle fibers during mitosis.

Homologous chromosomes

A pair of matching chromosomes, one inherited from each parent, having the same structure, size, and gene sequence.

Diploid

A cell or organism containing two complete sets of chromosomes ($2n$), which equals a total of $46$ chromosomes in human body cells.

Spindle fibers

Microtubule filaments that form the mitotic spindle and pull sister chromatids toward opposite poles of the dividing cell.

Cleavage furrow

A shallow groove or constriction that forms in the plasma membrane of an animal cell during cytokinesis to pinch the cell into two.

Cytokinesis

The physical division of the cytoplasm and organelles into two distinct daughter cells following mitosis.