Cell Cycle and Mitosis

Front

What occurs during Interphase?

Back

During Interphase, the cell grows, carries out normal cell activities, replicates all other organelles, and DNA replication (copying) occurs. The cell spends most of its life cycle in Interphase.

Front

What happens during Metaphase?

Back

During Metaphase, chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell, and spindle fibers connect to chromosomes via centromeres.

Front

What is the key event in Anaphase?

Back

In Anaphase, chromosome copies divide (or split apart), and spindle fibers contract to pull chromosomes to opposite poles. Each chromosome goes from having two sister chromatids to being two separate chromosomes.

Front

What changes occur during Telophase?

Back

During Telophase, chromosomes uncoil, nuclear envelopes form, two new nuclei are formed, and spindle fibers disappear.

Front

What is Cytokinesis?

Back

Cytokinesis is the division of the rest of the cell (cytoplasm and organelles) after the nucleus divides. In animal cells, the cytoplasm pinches in, and the cell will return to Interphase.

Front

What happens to cells when they become old or damaged?

Back

When cells become old or damaged, they die and are replaced with new cells.

Front

What happens after mitosis and cytokinesis?

Back

After mitosis and cytokinesis, the cell returns to Interphase to continue to grow and perform regular cell activities.