The Cell Cycle and Cellular Reproduction

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the cell cycle and cellular reproduction.

Prophase

The first and longest phase of mitosis, during which the chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and the spindle fibers begin to form.

Metaphase

The second phase of mitosis, during which the chromosomes align singly at the metaphase plate (the equatorial plane of the cell).

Anaphase

The third phase of mitosis, during which the sister chromatids separate and move toward opposite poles of the cell, pulled by the shortening spindle fibers.

Telophase

The final phase of mitosis, during which the chromosomes arrive at the cell poles, decondense, the nuclear envelope reforms around each set of chromosomes, and the spindle fibers disappear.