Mitosis and Cytokinesis

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions related to mitosis and cytokinesis, including phases of mitosis, structures involved, and differences in cell division between animal and plant cells.

What is the key concept of mitosis and cytokinesis?

Cells divide during mitosis and cytokinesis.

What are chromosomes?

One compact long continuous thread of DNA that consists of numerous genes.

What is chromatin?

DNA plus proteins (histones).

What is a chromatid?

One half of a duplicated chromosome.

What are sister chromatids?

Two halves of the same duplicated chromosome, held together at the centromere.

What is the function of telomeres?

Protect DNA and do not include genes.

What occurs during interphase?

The cell prepares to divide by growing and duplicating (making an exact copy) its DNA.

What are the four phases of mitosis?

Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase.

What happens during prophase?

Chromosomes condense and spindle fibers form.

What happens during metaphase?

Chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell, and spindle fibers attach to sister chromatids.

What happens during anaphase?

Sister chromatids separate (pulled apart) to opposite sides of the cell.

What happens during telophase?

New nuclei form and chromosomes begin to uncoil.

What is cytokinesis?

Division of the cytoplasm to create two new identical cells.

How does cytokinesis differ in animal and plant cells?

In animal cells, the membrane pinches closed; in plant cells, a cell plate forms.

What is the correct sequence of the phases of mitosis?

Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase