Mitosis:
1. Interphase: This is the longest phase where the cell grows, copies its DNA, and prepares for division.
* G1 phase: The cell grows and carries out its normal functions.
* S phase: The cell replicates its DNA, creating two identical copies of each chromosome.
* G2 phase: The cell continues to grow and prepares for mitosis.
2. Prophase: The chromosomes condense and become visible. The nuclear envelope breaks down, and the spindle fibers form.
3. Metaphase: The chromosomes line up at the center of the cell (the metaphase plate). The spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes.
4. Anaphase: The sister chromatids (identical copies of each chromosome) are pulled apart by the spindle fibers to opposite poles of the cell.
5. Telophase: The chromosomes reach the poles of the cell, and new nuclear envelopes form around them. The cytoplasm divides (cytokinesis) and the cell membrane pinches inwards, ultimately splitting the cell into two daughter cells.
Key features of mitosis:
* Creates two identical daughter cells with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell.
* Essential for growth, development, and repair of tissues.
* Used for asexual reproduction in some organisms.
In contrast to mitosis, meiosis is a type of cell division used for sexual reproduction. It produces gametes (sperm and egg cells) that have half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.
