The cell cycle is a series of events that cells go through as they grow and divide. It consists of five main phases:
- G1 Phase (Gap 1): During this phase, the cell grows in size and synthesizes proteins and organelles necessary for DNA replication.
- S Phase (Synthesis): In this phase, the cell replicates its DNA, ensuring that each daughter cell will have an identical set of chromosomes.
- G2 Phase (Gap 2): The cell continues to grow and prepares for mitosis by producing proteins and organelles needed for cell division.
- M Phase (Mitosis): This phase involves the division of the cell’s nucleus and chromosomes. It is further divided into prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
- Cytokinesis: This is the final stage where the cell’s cytoplasm divides, resulting in two daughter cells, each with a complete set of chromosomes.
Understanding these phases helps in comprehending how cells grow, replicate, and divide, which is fundamental to biology and medical science.