The cell cycle Mitosis is only one section of the life cycle of a cell. Interphase is the main part of the cell cycle. This is where DNA is replicated (a copy is made) to prepare for mitosis.

Overview of mitosis

Interphase Most of the cell cycle is spent in interphase. During interphase the cell is growing and metabolic activity is very high. DNA is in the form of chromatin. Toward the end of interphase, new DNA is synthesized and the chromosomes are replicated.

Prophase Chromosomes become condensed. Nuclear membrane disintegrates. Centrioles begin moving to the poles of the cell.

Metaphase Spindle fibres grow from centrioles to each chromosome and attach at the centromere. (Attachment point for the replicated sister chromatids.) Spindle fibres line up all the chromosomes to the equator of the cell.

Anaphase Spindle fibres pull on the sister chromatids, separating them.

Telophase The chromatids have been separated to opposite ends of the cell and a nucleus forms around each group. Cytokinesis begins.

Identifying the stages prophase interphase anaphase metaphase telophase