This definitions covers Key Terms — Mitosis within Mitosis and the Cell Cycle for GCSE Biology. Cell division by mitosis, cell cycle phases, chromosome behavior, cytokinesis differences, stem cells, cancer, and practical investigations It is section 12 of 19 in this topic. Make sure you can use the exact wording confidently, because definition marks are often lost through vague language.
Topic position
Section 12 of 19
Practice
18 questions
Recall
18 flashcards
📖 Key Terms — Mitosis
- Mitosis
- A type of cell division that produces two genetically identical daughter cells, each with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell. Used for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction.
- Cell cycle
- The repeating sequence of events a cell goes through as it grows and divides, including interphase and mitosis.
- Interphase
- The longest stage of the cell cycle (approximately 90% of the total time), during which the cell grows, carries out its normal functions, and replicates its DNA in preparation for division.
- Prophase
- The first stage of mitosis, when chromosomes condense and become visible, and the nuclear envelope breaks down.
- Metaphase
- The stage of mitosis when chromosomes line up along the equator (middle) of the cell, attached to spindle fibres.
- Anaphase
- The stage of mitosis when chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell by shortening spindle fibres.
- Telophase
- The final stage of mitosis, when a new nuclear envelope forms around each set of chromosomes at opposite poles.
- Cytokinesis
- The division of the cytoplasm following mitosis, producing two separate daughter cells.
- Chromosome
- A structure made of DNA and protein found in the nucleus of cells. Humans have 46 chromosomes (23 pairs) in most body cells.
- Chromatid
- One of the two identical strands that make up a duplicated chromosome, joined to its partner at the centromere.
- Centromere
- The region where two chromatids are joined together after DNA replication.
Must memorise: Mitosis produces 2 genetically identical daughter cells.
Must memorise: The cell cycle = interphase + mitosis + cytokinesis.
Must memorise: Interphase is when DNA replication happens — before mitosis begins.