Mitosis Although mitosis is a continuous process, biologists traditionally divide it into four stages: Image Source: http://www.indiana.edu/~anat215/virtualscope2/images/mitosis_vd_2.jpg

Prophase Chromosomes become visible Nuclear envelope dissolves Spindle Forms  Image Sources: http://biology.clc.uc.edu/fankhauser/Labs/Genetics/Root_tip_chromosomes/chromosomes/pro_P1152801.JPG Unit 4 Transparency 32 –Gateway to Biology

Metaphase Chromosomes line up along the middle Where are the Centrioles? Image Sources: Microscope Images – Gateway to Biology Unit 4 Transparency 32 – Gateway to Biology

Anaphase Centromeres divide Chromatids (now called chromosomes move toward opposite poles; pulled apart) Image Sources: Microscope Images – Gateway to Biology Unit 4 Transparency 32 – Gateway to Biology

Telophase Nuclear envelope forms at each pole Chromosomes uncoil Spindle dissolves Cytokinesis begins Image Sources: Microscope Images – Gateway to Biology Unit 4 Transparency 32 – Gateway to Biology

Summary Mitosis is the process by which a cell splits into two daughter cells. The four phases include: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.