Mitosis is a process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell. The correct order of events in mitosis is as follows:
- Prophase: During this first stage, chromosomes condense and become visible. The nuclear envelope begins to break down, and the mitotic spindle starts to form.
- Metaphase: The chromosomes line up along the equatorial plane of the cell. Spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes.
- Anaphase: The sister chromatids are pulled apart and move towards opposite poles of the cell as the spindle fibers shorten.
- Telophase: The chromatids reach the poles and begin to de-condense back into chromatin. The nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes.
- Cytokinesis: Although not technically a part of mitosis, cytokinesis occurs simultaneously with telophase, where the cytoplasm divides, resulting in two separate daughter cells.
Understanding these stages helps in grasping how cells replicate and ensure genetic continuity. Each phase is crucial for the accurate distribution of DNA to the daughter cells, which is essential for growth and repair in multicellular organisms.