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All 12 Flashcards — Phases of mitosis
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Question
What is mitosis?
Answer
The division of a nucleus into **two genetically identical** daughter nuclei, each with the **same number of chromosomes** as the parent.
Question
What are the four phases of mitosis, in order?
Answer
**Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase** (remember **PMAT**).
Question
What happens in prophase?
Answer
Chromosomes **condense** (coil up) and become visible; the spindle starts to form and the nuclear membrane breaks down.
Question
What happens in metaphase?
Answer
Chromosomes line up **single file along the middle (equator)** of the cell, attached to spindle fibres.
Question
What happens in anaphase?
Answer
The centromeres split and the **sister chromatids are pulled apart** to opposite poles.
Question
What happens in telophase?
Answer
**Two** new nuclear membranes form around the two groups of chromosomes, giving **two nuclei**.
Question
What are sister chromatids?
Answer
The **two identical copies** of a chromosome, made by DNA replication and joined at the **centromere** until anaphase.
Question
Why are the two daughter cells of mitosis genetically identical?
Answer
The DNA was **replicated once** into identical sister chromatids, which **separate** in anaphase so each cell gets one complete, identical set.
Question
Do the daughter cells of mitosis stay diploid?
Answer
**Yes** — mitosis does not change the chromosome number; both daughters have the same (diploid) set as the parent.
Question
What is mitosis used for in the body?
Answer
**Growth, repair** of tissue, and **asexual reproduction** — making more identical cells.
Question
Name an event that occurs in BOTH mitosis and meiosis.
Answer
**DNA replication** beforehand (also chromosome condensation and spindle formation).
Question
How does mitosis differ from meiosis in outcome?
Answer
Mitosis = **one** division → **two identical diploid** cells; meiosis = **two** divisions → **four different haploid** gametes.
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Full study notes for Phases of mitosis
Topic 4.4 hub
Cell and nuclear division
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