Mitosis: Cell Division & the Cell Cycle

How one cell becomes two identical daughters

Mitosis is somatic cell division producing two genetically identical daughter cells. The cell cycle consists of Interphase (G₁: growth, S: DNA replication, G₂: preparation) and Mitotic phase. Mitosis has 4 stages: Prophase (chromosomes condense, spindle forms), Metaphase (chromosomes align at the metaphase plate), Anaphase (sister chromatids separate, pulled to poles), Telophase (nuclear envelopes reform, chromosomes decondense). Cytokinesis then splits the cytoplasm. Cell cycle checkpoints (G₁/S, G₂/M, spindle assembly) ensure fidelity. Cancer results from checkpoint failure — cells divide uncontrollably.