Mitosis Overview

Mitosis Overview

• Mitosis is the process where a cell separates its chromosomes into two identical sets in two nuclei.
• The result is two diploid cells identical to the parent cell.
• This process maintains the chromosome number (e.g., 46 chromosomes remain 46 chromosomes).
• It produces all cell types except sex cells.

Do Now Question

• If a cell is growing, why does it need to divide? (This isn't answered in the provided text)

Phases of Mitosis

Interphase

• Chromosomes replicate during this phase

Prophase

• Spindle fibers radiate from opposite poles.
• Nuclear membrane disappears.

Metaphase

• Chromatids move to the central plate (middle).
• Chromatids align in the center.

Anaphase

• Chromatids separate and are pulled apart.
• They move toward the poles.

Telophase

• Nuclear membrane reappears, forming two nuclei.
• Cytoplasm splits (cytokinesis).
• The pinching in is called the cleavage furrow. (Plants use a cell plate instead of a cleavage furrow).

Plant vs. Animal Cells

• Animal cells contain centrioles that help form spindle fibers.
• Plant cells use a cell plate instead of a cleavage furrow during cytokinesis.

Additional Questions & Answers

• A series of diagrams represents mitotic cell division.
• If an organism reproduces asexually, its offspring are genetically identical to the parent.
• Normal mitotic cell division produces daughter cells with the same number and kinds of chromosomes as the parent cell.
• Chromatids of a double-stranded chromosome are held together at the centromere.

This quiz focuses on the stages of mitosis, detailing the process by which a cell divides to create two identical diploid cells. Explore each phase, from interphase through telophase, and understand the significance of cell division in growth and maintenance. Test your knowledge of the key concepts and terms associated with mitosis.