B2 Cell division Flashcards
What happens before a cell divides?
It makes a copy of every chromosome’s DNA
What happens to the nuclear membrane?
It breaks down
What happens to the chromosomes during mitosis?
- They join up in the centre of the cell
- They then separate to opposite sides of the cell
- New nuclear membranes form and the cell begins to divide
What is special about the two cells produced during mitosis?
They are genetically identical
What is a gene?
A short section of DNA that codes for a protein/controls a characteristic
What are chromosomes?
Thread-like structures in the nucleus that carry genes
What is DNA?
Deoxyribonucleic acid, the material of inheritance
What is mitosis?
Cell division that produces two genetically identical daughter cells
How many pairs of chromosomes are there in most human cells?
23
Why is mitosis important?
- Needed to produce cells that are needed for organisms to grow
- Needed to replace cells that have become worn out and repair damaged tissue
- Asexual reproduction
How many chromosomes are in one human body cell?
46
What is a stem cell?
Undifferentiated cell with the potential to become specialised
What are adult stem cells?
Stem cells that can only differentiate into a specific type of cell
Describe stage one of the cell cycle
Replication of DNA to form two copies of each chromosome and synthesis of new sub-cellular structures
Describe stage two of the cell cycle
Mitosis: one set of chromosomes is pulled to each end of the dividing cell and the nucleus divides