Interphase

Prophase

Metaphase

Anaphase

Telophase

Cytokinesis

The cell carries out its normal cell functions Most of the cell life cycle occurs in this phase Chromosomes in the nucleus are replicated (copied) as the cell prepares to divide

The Threadlike Chromatin shortens and forms into chromatid sisters connected by a centromere The centrioles begin to move to opposite ends of the cell and spindle fibers form between them The nuclear membrane begins to break down

Chromosomes attach to the spindle fibers at the centromere The chromosomes are pulled into a straight line across the middle of the cell

Spindle fibers pull the chromatid sisters apart by splitting the centromere The individual chromosomes are pulled toward opposite ends of the cell

Chromosomes are collected at either end of the cell Nuclear membranes begin to form A furrow develops and the cell begins the process of pinching off into two cells Chromosomes begin to uncoil

The membrane completely pinches off and cytoplasm is divided in half The division completes and two daughter cells are formed Each cell is an exact copy of the parent cell