Understanding the Cell Cycle and Cell Division

Cell Cycle

Series of phases for cell growth and division.

Interphase

Phase where the cell prepares for division.

• Resting stage, but busiest cell

• During this phase, the cell grows and replicates its chromosomes, and prepares for cell division.

• The cell then leaves interphase, undergoes mitosis, and completes its division

G1 Phase

First growth phase of Interphase.

S Phase

Synthesis phase; DNA replication occurs.

G2 Phase

Second growth phase before mitosis.

M Phase

Phase where mitosis or meiosis occurs.

Cell Division

Process by which a parent cell divides.

Somatic Cells

Body cells, excluding germ cells.

Germinal Cells

Cells involved in reproduction.

Haploid Chromosomes

Cells with one set of chromosomes (n).

Diploid Chromosomes

Cells with two sets of chromosomes (2n).

Homologous Chromosomes

Chromosome pairs with same genes, different alleles.

Sister Chromosomes

Identical copies of a chromosome after replication.

Prophase

First stage of mitosis and meiosis.

Metaphase

Chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plane.

Anaphase

Sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles.

Telophase

Final stage of mitosis; cell begins to divide.

Meiosis

Cell division producing four genetically diverse cells.

Meiosis I

First division in meiosis; reduces chromosome number.

Meiosis II

Second division in meiosis; similar to mitosis.

Prophase I

First stage of meiosis I; includes five sub-stages.