Mitosis

Mitosis

the division of a cells’ nucleus into two identical nuclei

Interphase

DNA and centrosomes are replicated

Early prophase

DNA continues condensing into chromosomes and the nuclear membrane begins to disintegrate

Late prophase

Chromosomes continue to condense. Each chromosome appears as two chromatids held together at the centromere.

Metaphase

The mitotic spindle is made up of microtubules and proteins. It organizes the chromosomes on the equator of the cell.

Anaphase

Centromeres divide and spindle fibers attached to chromatids shorten, pulling the chromatids apart.

Late anaphase

Other spindle fibers lengthen, pushing the poles apart and causing the cell to elongate

Telophase

Two new nuclei form. The cell plate forms across the midline of the parent cell.

Cytokinesis

The cytoplasm divides and the daughter cells become independent.

Early prophase (image)

Late prophase (image)

Metaphase (image)

Anaphase (image)

Late anaphase (image)

Telophase (image)