Question

For each of the following cells indicated in the image, say which phase of the cell cycle they are in. If they're in mitosis, be specific about which phase. You don't need to be specific about which part of interphase they're in. Cell A: Cell B: Cell C: Cell D: Cell E:

Answer 1

The cell cycle is composed of interphase (G₁, S, and G₂ phases), followed by the mitotic phase (mitosis and cytokinesis), and G₀ phase. The above image shows different phases in mitosis, a part of the cell cycle in which replicated chromosomes are separated into two new nuclei. During mitotic phase, the cell separates its DNA into two sets and divides its cytoplasm, forming two new cells

Cell A - Interphase

A typical cell spends most of its life in the interphse of cell cycle. It consists of G₁, S, and G₂ phases. During this phase the cell grows and makes a copy of its DNA.

Cell B - Prophase

This is the first phase of mitosis. During prophase the nucleus is ready to divde. The nuclear membrane disapeares and the chromososmes condenses.

Cell C - Metaphase

During metaphase the genetic material condenses to form visible chromosomes and they are aligned along the center of the cell, called the equatorial plate or metaphase plate. As metaphase continues, the cells partition into the two daughter cells.

Cell D - Anaphase

During this pahse, the duplicated chromosomes seperates and pulled by the spindle to opposite poles of the cell. Each pair of chromosomes is separated into two identical, independent chromosomes.

Cell E - Telophase

This is the and final phase of mitosis. During telophase, a nuclear membrane forms around each set of chromosomes to separate the nuclear DNA from the cytoplasm.The chromosomes begin to uncoil and form chromatinin this phase.The spindle also breaks down and new nuclear membranes form. This prepares the genetic material for directing the metabolic activities of the new cells.