Cell Cycle Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the cell cycle?

A regulated, continuous sequence of preparation (interphase) and division (mitosis) in a cell.

What occurs during interphase?

The cell grows, performs its normal functions, and prepares for division; consists of G1, S, and G2 phases.

What does mitosis involve?

(PMAT) Cell's division of the nucleus. Final product is 2 cells that are exactly like the parent cell.

What happens during prophase?

First phase of mitosis in which chromosomes become visible and nuclear membrane disappears. Signup and view all the answers

What is the second phase of mitosis called?

Metaphase Signup and view all the answers

What occurs during anaphase?

Third phase of mitosis in which sister chromatids are pulled to opposite sides of the cell. Signup and view all the answers

What is telophase?

The fourth and final stage of mitosis, in which nuclei are forming and cytokinesis has typically begun. Signup and view all the answers

What is cytokinesis?

Division of the cytoplasm during cell division. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Cell Cycle

A continuous, regulated sequence involving cell preparation and division.
Comprised of two main phases: interphase (growth and preparation) and mitosis (nuclear division).

Interphase

Precedes mitosis and consists of three sub-phases: G1, S, and G2.
G1 phase: Cell growth and normal functions occur.
S phase: DNA replication takes place, producing identical copies of each chromosome.
G2 phase: Final preparations for mitosis; cell grows further and produces necessary proteins.

Mitosis

Involves the division of the nucleus, following a specific sequence known as PMAT (Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase).
Results in two identical daughter cells.

Prophase

First stage of mitosis where chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes.
The nuclear membrane breaks down, allowing spindle fibers to interact with chromosomes.

Metaphase

Second stage where chromosomes align along the cell's equatorial plane.
This alignment ensures proper segregation of the chromosomes.

Anaphase

Third stage characterized by sister chromatids being pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell.
The separation ensures each new cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes.

Telophase

Fourth and final stage of mitosis where the nuclear envelope re-forms around the separated chromosomes.
Chromosomes begin to de-condense back into chromatin.

Cytokinesis

Division of the cytoplasm that occurs simultaneously with telophase.
Results in two separate daughter cells, each with its own nucleus and share of organelles.

Description

Explore the phases of the cell cycle through detailed flashcards. Learn about interphase, mitosis, and cytokinesis, including their processes and functions. Each card is designed to enhance your understanding of cell division.