parts of the cell, phases of mitosis

nucleus

the largest organelle and the only one visible with the microscope. Contains the cells chromosomes and the genetic control center of all cellular activity. 

nuclear envelope

the double membrane the nucleus is enclosed in. this envelope is perforated with nuclear pores formed by a ring of proteins. Coming into the nucleus are raw materials for DNA and RNA synthesis. RNA is made in the nucleus but leaves to perform its job in the cytoplasm. 

chromatin

material in the nucleus that is a fine, threadlike matter composed of DNA and protein. 

rough ER

produces phospholipids and proteins of the plasma membrane and synthesizes proteins.

ribosomes

small granules of protein and RNA found in nucleoli, cytosol, mitochondria, etc. they read coded genetic messages and assemble amino acids into proteins specified by code. 

the golgi complex

small system of cisterns that synthesize carbohydrates and put finishing touches on protein and glycoprotein synthesis. They look like a stack of pita bread. They receive newly synthesized proteins from the rough ER. sorts them, slices them and adds carbohydrates to some. 

lysosome

package of enzymes bounded by a membrane. They hydrolyze proteins, nucleic acids, complex carbs, phospholipid and other substrates. In the liver,break down glycogen to release glucose into the bloodstream. They also get rid of/dispose of unneeded organelles. 

mitochondria/mitochondrion

organelles specialized for synthesizing ATP. It is surrounded by a double membrane. The space between the inner folds of the membrane contains ribosomes, enzymes used in ATP synthesis, and a few small, circular DNA molecules. Their primary function is to serve as the powerhouse of the cell. 

chromatin

fine threads of DNA and protein

centrosome

directs the formation of the spindle

ribosome

attached to the outside of the rough ER

proteins

the primary structural material of the human body

lipids

the organic compound that does not dissolve in water

prophase

the nuclear envelope disintegrates and genetic material condenses into chromosomes.

metaphase

sister chromatids seperate and are moved to opposite ends of the cell.

anaphase

chromosomes cluster on each side of the cell and uncoil to form chromatin.

telophase

chromosomes align on the midline of the cell.