Cell divison

>Asexual reproduction - one parent ~ this is how organisms grow and repair damaged cells.

>Offspring genetically identical to parent - no variation - same number of chromosomes as the original cells

The process of mitosis:

-Original cell contains 2 chromosomes which are held together in the nucleus (nuclear envelope)

-Each chromosomes duplicates to consist of 2 strands called chromatids which are connected at the centromere.

-The chromatids condense to become shorter and thicker and the nuclear envelope disappears.

-Then spindle fibres from the poles of the cell attach to the centromere. They contract, pulling apart the chromatids. 

-Two new nuclear envelopes are formed around the chromosomes. 

-The cell finishes dividing into two and the chromosomes become longer and thinner.