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5 Stages of Mitosis

Mitosis is the process of cell division through the nucleus, which separates a cell into two parts with identical chromosomes. The new cells are called daughter cells and identical to the parent cell. Mitosis occurs to allow a multicellular organism to repair and grow damaged cellular tissue. There are five steps from the beginning to the end of the process.

Interphase
- During interphase, the DNA replicates itself but exists as loose cromatin and has not yet formed to the visible chromosome. During this phase, the nuclear membrane is still intact to protect and prevent mutation of the DNA.
Prophase
- During prophase, the DNA molecules shorten and condense to form chromosomes. The nucleolus and and nuclear membrane are no longer visible during prophase. The spindle apparatus separates to opposite sides of the cell.
Metaphase
- During metaphase, the spindle fibers attach themselves to the centromeres on the chromosomes, aligning along the equatorial plate.
Anaphase
- The chromatids separate, doubling the number of chromosomes during anaphase as the centromeres pull the sister chromatids in opposite directions.
Telophase
- Telophase is the final stage in the process of mitosis and involves the actual splitting of the cell. It divides in two, causing the chromosomes to uncoil and a nucleus to form in each new cell. The spindle apparatus disassembles to complete the cell creation.

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