Cell Cycles

What is the cell cycle?

A series of phases that a cell passes through to allow them to divide and produce new cells.

What occurs during interphase?

The cell grows, performs routine life processes, and prepares to divide.

In which phase does DNA synthesis take place?

During the S phase.

What happens during G2 of the cell cycle?

The cell grows and makes final preparations for division, checking the cell to prepare for mitosis.

What is the primary event that occurs during mitosis?

The division of the nucleus.

What happens during prophase?

The nuclear membrane starts to disappear and chromosomes form.

During which stage do chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell?

Metaphase.

What occurs during anaphase?

Sister chromatids move to opposite ends of the cell.

What are the results of telophase?

Two nuclei develop and the nuclear membrane reappears.

What is cytokinesis?

The process where the cell divides into two identical daughter cells.

What is cancer?

A disease caused when cells divide uncontrollably and spread into surrounding tissues.

What do genes that code for proteins related to cell division do?

They monitor cell division during mitosis and discourage unwanted cell growth.

How do tumors form?

Some mutations can change the proteins responsible for regulating cell growth and division.

What is meiosis?

Cell division that creates gametes, which are genetically different and haploid cells.

What is the purpose of meiosis?

To produce cells for sexual reproduction.

What happens during prophase 1 of meiosis?

The DNA condenses into chromosomes and the nucleus dissolves.

What is crossing over?

A process during prophase 1 that increases genetic variation of cells.

What occurs during anaphase 1?

Homologous chromosomes are pulled toward opposite sides of the cell.

What are the end results of meiosis 1?

Two new haploid cells are formed.

What happens during telophase 2?

Two nuclei form again after the chromosome separation.

What is the final result of cytokinesis 2 in meiosis?

The cell divides, resulting in four haploid sex cells (gametes).