How Cells Divide

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to cell division as discussed in the lecture notes.

Why do cells divide?

Cells divide for reproduction, growth, wound healing, and cell replacement.

Binary fission

A method of bacterial cell division that results in clonal reproduction.

Haploid (n)

A cell with one complete set of chromosomes.

Diploid (2n)

A cell with two complete sets of chromosomes, one maternal and one paternal.

Karyotype

The array of chromosomes of an individual, typically categorized by size and staining properties.

Nucleosome

A complex of DNA and histone proteins that organizes DNA within a chromosome.

Cohesin

A protein that holds sister chromatids together after DNA replication.

Centromere

The point of constriction on a chromosome where sister chromatids are held together.

Chromatid

One of the two identical halves of a replicated chromosome.

Mitosis

The process of cell division that results in two daughter cells, consists of several phases including prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

Cytokinesis

The final stage of cell division where the cytoplasm splits to form two separate cells.

Cancer

The uncontrolled growth of cells due to failure in regulating the cell cycle.