3.24c Mitosis 3

Stages of Mitosis

1. Interphase - Resting stage
DNA replication
Unable to see chromosomes

2. Prophase - Nucleus membrane breaks down
Chromosomes are now visible
Pair of chromatids
Beginning of mitosis

3. Late Prophase - Chromatids move towards spindles
Network of protein molecules (Spindle / fibres)
Extend from one pole of the cell to the other

4. Metaphase - Centramere joins to spindle fibre
Chromosomes are in the middle

5. Anaphase - Separation of the pair of chromatids
Spindle fibre shortens
Pulls chromatids apart
Move to the poles of the cell

6. Telophase - End of mitosis
Nucleus begins to reform around the chromosomes
Formation of two nuclei
Two sets of chromosomes at opposite ends of the cell

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Cytokinesis - Cell splits into two
NOT part of mitosis
Membrane fuses across the equator to form two new cells
Both cells have one chromosome - Same as the parental cell

Source: http://www.ba-education.com/dna/mitosis.jpg