what happens in each stage of mitosis
What happens in each stage of mitosis is simple: the cell copies its DNA, lines it up, pulls it apart, and then splits into two identical daughter cells.
Quick Scoop
| Stage | What happens |
|---|---|
| Interphase | The cell grows and copies its DNA so it is ready to divide. |
| Prophase | Chromosomes condense and become visible; the nucleus begins to break down. |
| Metaphase | Chromosomes line up across the middle of the cell. |
| Anaphase | Sister chromatids separate and move to opposite ends of the cell. |
| Telophase | New nuclei form around each set of chromosomes. |
| Cytokinesis | The cell membrane splits, forming two daughter cells. |
In plain words
- Interphase is the prep stage: the cell makes a copy of its DNA.
- Prophase is when the DNA coils up into visible chromosomes and the nucleus starts to disappear.
- Metaphase is the “line up” stage, with chromosomes arranged in the center.
- Anaphase is the “pull apart” stage, where the copies are dragged to opposite sides.
- Telophase is the “rebuild” stage, with new nuclei forming.
- Cytokinesis finishes the process by splitting one cell into two.
If you want, I can also turn this into a super-short study note or a labeled diagram-style summary.
