Why Cell Division is Important
Cell division is important to an organism for three reasons:- growth – an organism must get larger after birth
- maintenance – replacement of lost cells
- repair – healing of wounds
Cell Cycle
The cell cycle is the series of events from one cell division to the next.
The cell prepares for division by duplicating its chromosomes in the nucleus since each new cell needs a copy.
Stages of the Cell Cycle
Interphase → Most of the cell's life cycle is spent in interphase. During interphase the cell grows and engages in its regular functions. The mother cell also duplicates its organelles and the DNA (in the nucleus) in order to be ready for division.
Mitosis → Mitosis occurs during cell division. In this stage the contents of the nucleus are separated into two identical copies.
Cytokinesis → Cytokinesis is the final process in cell division. During cytokinesis, the cytoplasm and organelles divide into two, genetically identical cells (daughter cells). Each daughter cell now begins its own cell cycle.
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| Notice that the cell spends the majority of its time in interphase. |
Question of the Day #2: Do you think cell division occurs more often in a 4 year old or a 40 year old? Explain your reasoning. Send me your answer on Edsby.
