Phase
Characteristics
G1
This is the first phase of the
cell cycle after cell division
(mitosis or meiosis) is
complete. In this phase, the
cell grows in size, carries
out its normal functions, and
prepares for DNA
replication. The length of the
G1 phase can vary greatly
among different cell types.
S Phase (Synthesis):
S Phase (Synthesis): During
the S phase, DNA
replication occurs. The cell's
DNA is duplicated, resulting
in the formation of two
identical copies of each
chromosome called sister
chromatids.
G2 Phase (Gap 2)
G2 Phase (Gap 2): In this
phase, the cell continues to
grow and prepares for cell
division. It synthesizes
additional proteins and
organelles to ensure that
both daughter cells will
receive a complete set of
genetic material.
M Phase (Mitosis or
Meiosis):
The M phase is the actual
process of cell division. It is
divided into several stages,
including:
Prophase:
Chromosomes condense
and become visible. The
nuclear envelope breaks
down, and the spindle
apparatus forms.
Metaphase:
Chromosomes line up at the
equatorial plane of the cell.
Spindle fibers from opposite
Image
poles attach to the
centromeres of each
chromosome.
Anaphase:
Sister chromatids separate
and are pulled to opposite
poles of the cell by the
spindle fibers.
Telophase:
The separated
chromosomes reach the
opposite poles of the cell.
Nuclear envelopes reform
around each set of
chromosomes, and the
chromosomes begin to
decondense.
Cytokinesis:
The cytoplasm of the cell
divides, resulting in the
formation of two daughter
cells. In animal cells, a
cleavage furrow forms,
pinching the cell in two. In
plant cells, a cell plate forms
to divide the cytoplasm.
(After the M phase, the daughter cells enter the G1 phase, and the cell cycle starts again.
The length of the cell cycle can vary depending on the cell type and its specific functions.)