Cell Cycle Basics
What are the 4 main stages of the cell cycle?
G1, S, G2, M
In what phase do chromosomes align at the cell's equator?
Metaphase
What structure pulls chromatids apart during mitosis?
Spindle fibers
What is the stage of the cell cycle where the cell spends most of its life?
Interphase
What are the major differences between plant and animal cell division?
Plant cells form a cell plate; animal cells form a cleavage furrow
In which phase does DNA replication occur?
S phase
During which phase do sister chromatids separate?
Anaphase
What organelle is responsible for organizing sprindle fibers in animal cells?
Centrioles
What is the name for identical copies of a chromosome attached at the centromere?
Sister chromatids
What is the primary purpose of mitosis?
To produce two identical daughter cells for growth and repair
What is the primary function of the G1 phase?
Cell growth and normal functions
Which phase is characterized by the disappearance of the nuclear envelope?
Prophase
What structure forms in plant cells to divide the cytoplasm?
Cell Plate
What is the process of dividing the cell's nucleus?
Mitosis
How do spindle fibers assist in mitosis?
They attach to chromosomes at the centromere and pull sister chromatids apart
What is the purpose of the G2 phase?
Growth and prepare for mitosis
In which phase does the nuclear envelope reappear?
Telophase
What structure forms in animal cells to divide the cytoplasm?
Cleavage furrow
What is the purpose of cell cycle checkpoints?
To ensure proper DNA replication and prevent errors
Why is DNA replication essential before mitosis?
Ensures both daughter cells receive a complete set of chromosomes
What phase occurs directly after G2 in the cell cycle?
Mitosis
What is the final stage of the cell cycle that divides the cytoplasm?
Cytokinesis
What structure contains genetic information and condenses during mitosis?
What condition is caused by uncontrolled cell division?
Cancer
How do mutations in cell cycle regulation lead to cancer?
Mutations may bypass checkpoints, allowing uncontrolled cell division