Cell Division and the Cell Cycle

A vocabulary study set defining key stages, structures, and processes of the cell cycle, mitosis, and interphase discussed in the lecture.

Interphase

The phase of cell growth and development between mitotic divisions, composed of three stages ($G_1$, $S$, and $G_2$), where DNA is duplicated and the cell is not dividing.

Chromatin

The dense form of DNA present inside the nucleus during interphase before distinct shape and function can be seen.

Prophase

The stage of mitosis where chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, the nuclear membrane begins to fade, and kinetochore and nonkinetochore microtubules form as centrioles build an aster cloud.

Metaphase

The stage of mitosis during which chromosomes line up and are located along the equator, right in the middle of the cell.

Anaphase

The stage of mitosis where sister chromatids are pulled apart and move toward opposite poles of the cell, and where the cleavage furrow first appears in animal cells.

Sister Chromatids

Identical chromosome copies that are observed separating and being pulled apart during anaphase.

Cleavage Furrow

An indentation in animal cells that first appears during anaphase as the cell prepares to divide.

Telophase

The stage of mitosis in which a new nuclear membrane is formed around chromosomes and the chromosomes become invisible again.

Mitosis

The process of nuclear division consisting of four distinct phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

Cytokinesis

The process of cell division following mitosis where the cytoplasm is divided, completing cell division and resulting in two identical daughter cells.

S Phase

The specific stage of interphase in which chromosomes and DNA are replicated.

$G_1$ Phase

The stage of interphase that two newly formed daughter cells enter immediately after cytokinesis is completed.