Mitosis

Question 1

Define mitosis

Answer 1

The process by which a cell replicates its chromosomes and then segregates them, producing identical nuclei in preparation for cell division.

Question 2

What occurs before mitosis and what does it do?

Answer 2

Interphase occurs before mitosis. Interphase is when the cells grow, replicate DNA, and carry out their daily cell functions. This stage is also where the cells spend the most of their time.

Question 3

What is the significance of mitosis?

Answer 3

Its purpose is to grow and replace worn-out cells.

Question 4

Why must chromosomes duplicate in the interphase before mitosis starts?

Answer 4

The chromosomes must duplicate before mitosis because, when making an identical cell, it makes sense that you have to duplicate the genetic material before splitting.

Question 5

Define centromere

Answer 5

A part of the chromosome where sister chromatids are held together.

Question 6

Define chromatids

Answer 6

Strands of replicated chromosomes.

Question 7

Name the 4 phases of Mitosis

Answer 7

Prophase, anaphase, metaphase, and telophase

Question 8

Explain what happens in prophase

Answer 8

During this phase, the complex of DNA and proteins contained in the nucleus, known as chromatin, condenses and thickens, which makes it visible.

Question 9

Explain what happens in metaphase

Answer 9

The chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell, and the nucleus disassembles, which makes it no longer present. Therefore, the chromosomes are waiting in the middle of the cell.

Question 10

Explain what happens in anaphase

Answer 10

In anaphase, the shortest stage of mitosis, the sister chromatids break apart, and the chromosomes begin moving to the opposite ends of the cells, towards the poles. The chromosomes are not moving by themselves; they have spindles (fibres) that help them move to the ends. By the end of anaphase, the 2 halves of the cell will have an equivalent collection of chromosomes.

Question 11

Explain what happens in telophase

Answer 11

• Telophase is the final phase of mitosis, the process that separates the duplicate genetic material carried in the nucleus of a parent cell into identical daughter cells.
• Nuclei also start to surround the chromosomes on both sides.
• Cytokinesis is responsible for the final separation into two cells by splitting the cytoplasm.