The Cell Cycle and Mitosis: An Intro SNC2D

The Cell Cycle Every hour, approximately 1 billion of your cells die – but approximately 1 billion cells are created in a process of cell division called mitosis.

Interphase The cell prepares for cell division by growing (producing new proteins and organelles) and by synthesizing copies of its DNA (the chromatin). This stage of the cell cycle is called interphase.

Prophase During the first phase of mitosis, prophase, the chromatin condenses into chromosomes and the nuclear structure disintegrates. A framework called the mitotic spindle forms.

Metaphase Next the chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell. This is metaphase.

Anaphase During anaphase, the chromosomes separate and are pulled to opposite ends of the cell.

Telophase and Cytokinesis In the last stage of mitosis, telophase, the cell divides the cytoplasm into two portions. The final separation of the cytoplasm into two distinct cells is called cytokinesis.

Your Task Your task will be to identify the structures that will allow you to identify each phase and then to observe mitosis in a prepared slide of an onion root tip.