Cell Differentiation and the Cell Cycle

Stage 1 is the largest stage in the cell cycle.

This is when the cells carry out normal cell activities.

Most importantly, they replicate their DNA to form two copies of each chromosone ready for cell division.

They also replicate sub-cellular structures (mitochondria, ribosome, etc.) ready for the cell to divide.

Stage 2 is mitosis.

Mitosis is when one set of chromosones is pulled to each end of the cell and the nucleus divides.

Mitosis occurs for:

• growth
• replacement of cells
• repair
• asexual reproduction

Stage 3 is when the cytoplasm and cell membrane divide.

Stage 3 is when the cell itself divides into two identical daughter cells.