Cell Cycle & Cell Division (Mitosis)

Cell Cycle

A series of events in which a cell grows, copies its DNA, and divides into new cells.

Mitosis

Cell division that produces 2 genetically similar daughter cells with the same chromosome number as the parent cell.

Cytokinesis

Division of the cell's cytoplasm to form separate daughter cells.

Binary Fission

A type of cell division in prokaryotes where one cell divides into two, without a nucleus or spindle fibers.

Interphase

The period when a cell grows, performs normal functions, and copies its DNA before division.

G1 Phase

Cell grows, performs normal functions, and produces proteins and organelles in preparation for DNA replication.

S Phase

Phase where DNA is replicated, creating copies of the chromosomes

G2 Phase

Cell continues growing and prepares for mitosis or meiosis.

Prophase

Chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes and the cell prepares for division.

Prometaphase

Nuclear envelope breaks down and spindle fibers attach to chromosomes at their kinetochores.

Metaphase

Chromosomes line up at the middle of the cell (metaphase plate).

Anaphase

Sister chromatids separate and move toward opposite poles of the cell.

Telophase

Chromosomes reach opposite poles and new nuclear envelopes form around them.

Sister Chromatids

Two identical copies of a chromosome joined together at the centromere.

Centromere

The region of a chromosome where sister chromatids are joined.

Kinetochore

A protein structure on the centromere where spindle fibers attach.

Spindle Fibers

Structures that attach to chromosomes and move them during cell division.

Metaphase Plate

The imaginary line at the center of the cell where chromosomes align during metaphase.