Mitosis and the Cell Cycle

Vocabulary terms and definitions covering the cell cycle, chromosomes, the stages of mitosis, and the purpose of cell division.

Mitosis

The process of cell division where one cell becomes two identical copies for growth, repair, and replacement.

Chromosomes

Long structures in the nucleus made of coiled-up DNA; each one carries many genes.

Genes

Sections of DNA that code for proteins.

Human body cells

Cells that contain 23 pairs of chromosomes, for a total of 46 (one from each parent).

Growth & DNA replication

The stage of the cell cycle where the cell grows, increases subcellular structures like mitochondria and ribosomes, and replicates its DNA.

Sister chromatids

Two identical copies of a chromosome that are joined together to form an X-shape.

Centromere

The point where two sister chromatids are joined together.

Prophase

The first stage of mitosis where chromosomes condense into X shapes and the nuclear membrane breaks down.

Metaphase

The second stage of mitosis where chromosomes line up across the centre of the cell.

Anaphase

The third stage of mitosis where spindle fibres pull the sister chromatids of each chromosome to opposite ends of the cell.

Telophase

The final stage of mitosis where new nuclear membranes form, and the cytoplasm and cell membrane divide.

Asexual reproduction

A process where offspring are produced from one parent via mitosis, such as plants reproducing via runners.

Repair and replacement

A function of mitosis used to replace damaged or worn-out cells, such as those in the skin or gut lining.