Mitosis
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You are viewing the same cell through different stages.
Stage 1 of 6
Interphase
The cell prepares for division by copying its DNA and organizing internal structures.
Although the cell appears stable, essential preparation for mitosis is already underway.
Key Activities
- DNA is duplicated
- The cell grows and produces proteins
- Organelles and centrosomes replicate
- Chromatin remains loosely organized inside the nucleus
Components
- Centrosome
- Chromosome
- Nucleus
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Stage 2 of 6
Early Prophase
The cell begins transitioning into division.
Chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes as the mitotic machinery starts forming.
Key Activities
- Chromatin condenses into chromosomes
- Centrosomes move toward opposite sides of the cell
- Spindle fibers begin forming
- The nucleolus disappears
Components
- Centrosome
- Chromosome
- Mitotic Spindle
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Stage 3 of 6
Late Prophase
The nuclear envelope breaks down, allowing spindle fibers to interact with chromosomes.
The cell prepares to organize chromosomes for separation.
Key Activities
- The nuclear envelope breaks apart
- Spindle fibers attach to the chromosomes
- Chromosomes finish condensing
- Centrosomes reach opposite poles
Components
- Centrosome
- Chromosome
- Mitotic Spindle
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Stage 4 of 6
Chromosomes align at the center of the cell.
This alignment ensures each future cell receives an identical copy of the genetic material.
Key Activities
- Chromosomes line up at the metaphase plate
- Spindle fibers attach from opposite poles
- Tension stabilizes chromosome alignment
- The cell checks that all chromosomes are properly attached
Components
- Centrosome
- Chromosome
- Mitotic Spindle
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Stage 5 of 6
Anaphase
Sister chromatids separate and move toward opposite ends of the cell.
This ensures each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.
Key Activities
- Sister chromatids split apart
- Spindle fibers shorten and pull chromosomes outward
- Chromosomes move toward opposite poles
- The cell elongates
Components
- Centrosome
- Chromosome
- Mitotic Spindle
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Stage 6 of 6
Telophase
Two new nuclei begin forming around the separated chromosomes.
The cell transitions from division back toward a stable structure.
Key Activities
- Chromosomes reach opposite poles
- Nuclear envelopes reform
- Chromosomes begin decondensing
- Spindle fibers break down
Components
- Centrosome
- Chromosome
- Nucleolus
- Nucleus
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