The first thing that happens when a new cell is produced is cytokinesis, the process of physically dividing the cytoplasm of the parent cell into two daughter cells. This occurs shortly after the completion of mitosis or meiosis, when the duplicated chromosomes have been separated.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

1. Mitosis or Meiosis: The parent cell undergoes cell division, either through mitosis (for growth and repair) or meiosis (for sexual reproduction). This process replicates the chromosomes and separates them into two sets.

2. Cytokinesis Begins: As the chromosomes are being pulled apart, the cytoplasm of the parent cell begins to divide. This is facilitated by a contractile ring made of microfilaments, primarily composed of actin and myosin.

3. Cleavage Furrow Formation: The contractile ring pinches inward, creating a cleavage furrow that progressively deepens.

4. Cell Separation: Eventually, the cleavage furrow completely cuts through the cell, separating the cytoplasm and forming two distinct daughter cells.

This process of cytokinesis ensures that each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes and the necessary organelles and cytoplasm to function independently.