Key Stages of Cell Division

Summary of Key Stages of Cell Division

Interphase

  • Stage: Interphase
  • Genetic Information: Visible as chromatin
  • Nuclear: Present

Prophase

  • Stage: Prophase
  • Genetic Information: DNA condenses into visible chromosomes
  • Nuclear: Nuclear envelope begins to break down

Metaphase

  • Stage: Metaphase
  • Genetic Information: Chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plane
  • Nuclear: Nuclear envelope is completely disassembled

Anaphase

  • Stage: Anaphase
  • Genetic Information: Sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell
  • Nuclear: No nuclear envelope present during this stage

Telophase

  • Stage: Telophase
  • Genetic Information: Chromatids arrive at poles and begin to de-condense back into chromatin
  • Nuclear: Nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes

Cytokinesis

  • Stage: Cytokinesis
  • Genetic Information: Chromatin fully formed and genetic material is back to interphase state
  • Nuclear: Two distinct nuclei are formed within the divided cell.