The cell splits into genetically identical copies of the original. These 2 are called

Daughter cells and are Diploid in chromosomes (two of each chromosome). The original cell which divides is called the Parent cell. The entire process of cell division can range anywhere from 20 minutes to a few weeks. This all depends on the type of the cell.

Before we start click here to review DNA.

You should also have read the basic strucutre of chromosomes, click here

Interphase

As you can see from the diagram above, Interphase takes the majority of the cell cycle. At this stage the cell is preparing its self for cell division.

It is made up of 3 distinct stages:

• G1 (growth phase 1)
• At this stage the cell grows in size, replicating its organelles and getting the machinery ready for DNA replication.
• S phase (DNA synthesis)
• At this stage DNA begins to replicate. However they are still not visible with a light microscope.
• G2 (growth phase 2)
• At this stage the cell continues to grow, centrosomes are fully formed and chromosomes begin to condense.

The entire cell cycle is made up of 3 parts:

Interphase

Mitosis

 Cytokinesis

Mitosis

Mitosis is made up of 4 stages

• Prophase
• Metaphase
• Anaphase
• Telophase

Prophase

At this stage, the spindle fibres form, stretching between the two centrioles. The centrioles begin to migrate to each end of the cell (the poles).

The nucleus also dissolves freeing the now condensed chromosomes.

Metaphase

At this stage, the chromosomes line up at the equator.

Spindle fibres attach to centromere of each chromosome.

Anaphase

At this stage, the spindle fibres retract, pulling each chromatid from the equator to opposite poles of the cell.

Telophase

At this stage, a nucleus reforms around the chromosomes and they de-condense.

The cell begins to separate

Cytokinesis

At this stage, the cell completely separates into two different cells.

In plant cells, golgi vesicles send the components of the cell wall to the area of cell separation. Forming a new cell wall. This is called a cell plate.

Click to enlarge

Scroll over each part of the phase below

Bellow are some pictures of actual cell mitosis

Continue on with questions

Continue on with an assessment on mitosis