Cell Division and Mitosis Overview

Study Notes

Mitosis is the process of cell division that results in two daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell
It consists of four stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase
Mitosis occurs in somatic cells (non-reproductive cells) and results in two daughter cells with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell

Prophase:
- Chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes
- Nuclear envelope breaks down
- Centrioles move to opposite poles of the cell
Metaphase:
- Chromosomes line up at the center of the cell
- Each chromosome is attached to a spindle fiber
Anaphase:
- Sister chromatids separate and move to opposite poles
- Each pole now has a complete set of chromosomes
Telophase:
- Nuclear envelope begins to reform
- Chromatin uncoils to form chromatin again
- Cytokinesis (cytoplasmic division) occurs, resulting in two daughter cells

Meiosis is the process of cell division that results in four non-identical daughter cells with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell
It occurs in reproductive cells (gametes: sperm and egg cells) and is essential for sexual reproduction
Meiosis consists of two successive cell divisions (meiosis I and meiosis II) and results in four haploid cells

Cell division is a fundamental process that allows a cell to become two daughter cells, essential for growth, repair, and reproduction in living organisms.

Mitosis is a type of cell division that results in two daughter cells genetically identical to the parent cell, occurring in somatic cells.
It consists of four stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, resulting in two daughter cells with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

Prophase: chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, nuclear envelope breaks down, and centrioles move to opposite poles of the cell.
Metaphase: chromosomes line up at the center of the cell, each attached to a spindle fiber.
Anaphase: sister chromatids separate and move to opposite poles, resulting in each pole having a complete set of chromosomes.
Telophase: nuclear envelope begins to reform, chromatin uncoils to form chromatin again, and cytokinesis (cytoplasmic division) occurs, resulting in two daughter cells.

Meiosis is a type of cell division that results in four non-identical daughter cells with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell, occurring in reproductive cells.
It consists of two successive cell divisions (meiosis I and meiosis II) and results in four haploid cells, essential for sexual reproduction.

Cell division is essential for growth and development in living organisms, allowing for the replacement of damaged or dead cells.
Errors in cell division can lead to genetic disorders or cancer.