6. Diagram and list events of the cell cycle (interphase and mitosis)

The cell cycle consists of several stages that a cell goes through to grow and divide. It can be divided into two main phases: interphase and mitosis. Below is a diagrammatic representation and a list of events for each phase. ### Diagram of the Cell Cycle ``` +------------------+ | Interphase | | | | G1 | S | G2 | +------------------+ | v +------------------+ | Mitosis | | | | Prophase | | Metaphase | | Anaphase | | Telophase | +------------------+ | v +------------------+ | Cytokinesis | +------------------+ ``` ### Events of the Cell Cycle #### Interphase 1. **G1 Phase (Gap 1)**: - The cell grows in size. - Synthesizes proteins and organelles. - Prepares for DNA replication. 2. **S Phase (Synthesis)**: - DNA replication occurs. - Each chromosome is duplicated, resulting in two sister chromatids. 3. **G2 Phase (Gap 2)**: - The cell continues to grow. - Produces proteins necessary for mitosis. - Checks for DNA damage and ensures all DNA is replicated correctly. #### Mitosis 1. **Prophase**: - Chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes. - The nuclear envelope begins to break down. - The mitotic spindle begins to form. 2. **Metaphase**: - Chromosomes align at the metaphase plate (equatorial plane). - Spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes. 3. **Anaphase**: - Sister chromatids are pulled apart toward opposite poles of the cell. - The cell elongates as the spindle fibers shorten. 4. **Telophase**: - Chromatids reach the poles and begin to de-condense back into chromatin. - The nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes. #### Cytokinesis - The cytoplasm divides, resulting in two separate daughter cells. - In animal cells, this occurs through a cleavage furrow. - In plant cells, a cell plate forms to separate the two new cells. This overview provides a clear understanding of the cell cycle and its key events.