Mitosis Worksheet Flashcards

Study Notes

Mitosis Overview

Mitosis consists of several phases: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase, and Cytokinesis.
Each phase is essential for the accurate division of genetic material and cytoplasm.

Phases of Mitosis

Prophase:
- Chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes.
- Nuclear membrane fades from view.
- Spindle fibers begin to form.
Metaphase:
- Chromosomes align at the equator of the cell.
- Chromatids are positioned along the equatorial plate to ensure proper separation.
Anaphase:
- Centromeres divide, allowing sister chromatids to move toward opposite poles of the cell.
- This phase ensures that each daughter cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes.
Telophase:
- A new nuclear membrane forms around each set of chromosomes at opposite poles.
- Spindle fibers disappear, and chromosomes begin to de-condense.
- In plant cells, a cell plate starts to form as cytokinesis progresses.

Cytokinesis

Cytokinesis is the final step where the cytoplasm divides, leading to the formation of two distinct daughter cells.
In animal cells, the cytoplasm pinches inward, while in plant cells, a cell plate forms across the center.

Interphase

Interphase is the longest phase of the cell cycle, during which the cell grows, replicates its DNA, and produces organelles in preparation for mitosis.
Chromosomes are not visible during this phase as chromatin is dispersed in the nucleus.

Chromosome Structure

Each chromosome is made up of two identical halves known as sister chromatids, which are joined at a structure called the centromere.

Identifying Phases and Structures

Cell transitions can be distinguished by observing key features such as the presence of a cell wall (indicating plant cells) or the absence thereof (indicating animal cells).
Structures such as centrioles play a role in organizing the spindle apparatus during mitosis.

Importance of Mitosis

Mitosis is vital for growth, development, and repair of tissues in multicellular organisms by ensuring that all new cells have the same genetic information.

Key Concepts

Cytokinesis begins at the end of telophase.
The cell cycle phase where organelles are made and DNA is copied is interphase.
Understanding the correct order of mitotic phases is essential for grasping how cells divide and reproduce.

Description

Test your knowledge of mitosis with these flashcards! Each card includes a key term related to the stages of mitosis, along with its definition. Perfect for students looking to master cell division concepts.