Mitosis and Cell Division Vocabulary (Video Notes)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from the lecture notes on mitosis, the cell cycle, DNA, chromosomes, and cancer.

A type of cell division that produces two genetically identical somatic (body) cells for growth and repair.

Mitosis

Meiosis

A different type of cell division that produces gametes (sperm and egg) with half the chromosome number and introduces genetic diversity.

Interphase

The stage of the cell cycle when the cell grows and duplicates its DNA in preparation for mitosis.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid; the genetic material that must be copied and distributed to daughter cells during cell division.

Nucleus

The organelle that houses DNA and controls cellular activities.

Chromosome

A condensed DNA–protein structure that becomes visible during mitosis; humans have 46 chromosomes in most body cells.

Chromatid

One copy of a replicated chromosome; two chromatids make up a chromosome before they separate.

Sister chromatid

The two identical copies of a replicated chromosome held together at the centromere until separation during mitosis.

Centromere

The region where sister chromatids are held together and to which spindle fibers attach during mitosis.

Spindle fibers

Fiber-like structures that pull chromosomes apart toward opposite poles during mitosis.

PMAT

The sequence of mitosis stages: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase.

Prophase

The first stage of mitosis; chromosomes condense and become visible; the nucleus begins to disappear.

Metaphase

Stage where chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell; the nucleus is disassembled and spindle fibers attach to centromeres.

Anaphase

Stage where sister chromatids separate and move to opposite poles; chromosomes separate and move away.

Telophase

Stage where nuclei reform around the separated chromatids at each end; chromosomes begin to de-condense.

Cytokinesis

The final division of the cytoplasm, completing cell division and producing two separate daughter cells.

Cancer

Uncontrolled cell growth due to loss of regulation of the mitotic process.

Somatic cells

Body (non-reproductive) cells produced by mitosis; not gametes.

Gametes

Reproductive cells (sperm and eggs) produced by meiosis; contain half the chromosome number.

Nuclei

Plural form of nucleus.