Cell division - mitosis Flashcards
What is Mitosis?
Cell division of somatic (body) cells into 2 identical cells for the purpose of growth and repair.
How many chromosomes does each cell contain during Mitosis?
Each cell contains 46 chromosomes and divides into two cells with 46 chromosomes.
What is Interphase?
The phase where most time is spent; the cell undergoes growth and chromosomes replicate to prepare to divide.
What happens during Prophase?
The nuclear membrane begins to break down, and chromosomes become visible. Centrioles produce microtubule spindles to organize and move chromosomes.
What occurs during Metaphase?
Chromosomes line up at the middle section of the cell equator, and spindles attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes.
What happens during Anaphase?
The spindles pull the chromosomes apart to each side or pole of the cell to ensure the DNA ends up on each side.
What occurs during Telophase?
Chromosomes are at either end of the pole, the cell membrane pinches at the center (cleavage furrow), and spindles disappear while chromosomes de-condense.
What is Cytokinesis?
The final step of separating the cell, which differs for plants and animals.
