Mitosis
By: Megan Walkenhorst
What is Mitosis?
Mitosis is cell division which results in 2 identical daughter cells that are diploid.
Diploid:cells that have 2 copies of each chromosome or a full set of genetic info (DNA).
What is the purpose of Mitosis?
- growth
- repair
- maintenance
Stages of Mitosis
Interphase
- chromosomes are replicated (# doubles)
- chromosomes appear as threadlike coils (chromatin) at the start
- each chromosome and its copy (sister chromosome) change to sister chromatids at the end of this phase
- the nucleolus and the nuclear envelope are distinct
Prophase
- mitosis begins (cell begins to divide)
- centrioles (or poles) appear and begin to move to opposite ends of a cell
- spindle fibers form between the poles
- the chromosomes appear condensed
- the nuclear envelope isn't visible
- nuclear membrane dissolves
Metaphase
- chromosomes are lined up in the center of the cell
- chromotids (pairs of chromosomes) attach to the spindle fibers
Anaphase
- chromosomes have separated
- chromatids (pairs of chromosomes) separate and begin to move to opposite ends of the cell
- cytokinesis begins
Telophase
- chromosomes are at the poles
- nuclear envelope is reforming
- cytoplasm may be dividing
- spindle fibers dissolve
- chromosomes unwind to reform chromatin; cell reenters interphase
Cytokinesis
- cell membrane moves inward to create two daughter cells
- each daughter cell has its own nucleous with identical chromosomes
Resources
- http://www.edupic.net/cells.htm*
- Worksheet