1. Interphase:
* G1 (Gap 1): The cell grows and carries out normal metabolic functions.
* S (Synthesis): The cell replicates its DNA, resulting in two identical copies of each chromosome.
* G2 (Gap 2): The cell continues to grow and prepares for mitosis.
2. Mitosis:
* Prophase:
* Chromosomes condense and become visible.
* The nuclear envelope breaks down.
* The mitotic spindle, made of microtubules, begins to form.
* Metaphase:
* Chromosomes line up at the center of the cell (equator) along the mitotic spindle.
* Anaphase:
* Sister chromatids (the two identical copies of each chromosome) separate and move to opposite poles of the cell.
* Telophase:
* Chromosomes reach the poles and begin to decondense.
* The nuclear envelope reforms around each set of chromosomes.
* The cytoplasm divides (cytokinesis).
3. Cytokinesis:
* The cytoplasm divides, forming two daughter cells, each with a complete set of chromosomes and organelles.
Key Points:
* Mitosis results in two identical daughter cells. This is important for growth, development, and repair of tissues.
* Autosomal cells are all cells in the body except for gametes (sex cells).
* Gametes undergo a different type of cell division called meiosis.
Let me know if you have any more questions!
