Biology Flashcards: Mitosis and Reproduction

Anaphase

• Third stage of mitosis where centromeres split.
• Chromatids separate and move to opposite poles of the cell.
• Spindle fibers shorten to pull chromatids apart.

Binary Fission

• Asexual reproduction method resulting in identical offspring.
• Common in prokaryotic organisms.

Centromere

• Joins two chromatids together.
• Plays a crucial role during anaphase in chromosome separation.

Chromosome

• Structure composed of DNA and proteins, housing genes.
• Present in a coiled form during mitosis and meiosis.

Chromatid

• One half of a replicated chromosome during cell division.
• Each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids.

Chromatin

• DNA combined with histone proteins, loosely arranged in the nucleus.
• Exists in a non-dividing cell during interphase.

Cell Cycle

• Series of phases (G1, S, G2, mitosis, cytokinesis) that eukaryotic cells undergo for growth and division.
• Essential for maintaining cellular functions and reproduction.

Cell Division

• Part of the cell cycle focused on the division of the nucleus and cytoplasm.
• Ensures the formation of two distinct daughter cells.

Centriole

• Part of the spindle apparatus involved in organizing chromosome separation.
• Located at opposite ends of the cell during mitosis.

Cytokinesis

• Final step of cell division where the cytoplasm divides, creating two separate cells.
• Occurs after mitosis is complete.

G1 (1st Growth Phase)

• Initial phase of the cell cycle dedicated to routine cellular functions and growth.
• Cells increase in size and accumulate resources.

G2 (2nd Growth Phase)

• Preparatory stage before cell division, focusing on finalizing preparations.
• Involves further growth and organelle duplication.

Interphase

• The interval between two mitotic divisions characterized by routine functions and DNA replication.
• Comprises G1, S, and G2 phases.

Metaphase

• Second stage of mitosis where chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plate.
• Spindle fibers attach to each chromosome at the centromere.

Mitosis

• Process by which a cell's nucleus divides, resulting in two nuclei.
• Each nucleus contains identical genetic material to the original cell.

Prophase

• First stage of mitosis where chromosomes become visible as they condense.
• Centrioles migrate to the cell's poles, and spindle fibers form as the nuclear envelope breaks down.

Spindles

• Structure made of centrioles and microtubules that segregates chromosomes during cell division.
• Essential for accurate distribution of genetic material to daughter cells.

S (Synthesis) Phase

• Phase wherein DNA replication occurs; the entire genetic material is duplicated.
• Critical for preparing the cell for the subsequent division.

Telophase

• Fourth stage of mitosis where nuclear envelopes reform around the separated chromosomes.
• Chromosomes uncoil and the spindle apparatus dissolves, concluding mitosis.

This quiz covers key concepts related to the stages of mitosis, specifically focusing on anaphase, as well as forms of asexual reproduction like binary fission. Each flashcard provides a term and its definition to enhance your understanding of these biological processes.