Here's a breakdown:
* Mitosis is a type of cell division that produces two daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell.
* It's a fundamental process for growth, development, and repair in multicellular organisms.
Here's a simplified explanation:
1. Interphase: The cell prepares for division by copying its DNA and organelles.
2. Prophase: The chromosomes condense, and the nuclear envelope breaks down.
3. Metaphase: The chromosomes line up at the center of the cell.
4. Anaphase: The sister chromatids (identical copies of the chromosomes) are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell.
5. Telophase: The nuclear envelope reforms around the separated chromosomes, and the cytoplasm divides to form two daughter cells.
In summary, mitosis ensures that each new cell receives a complete set of chromosomes, identical to the original parent cell.