The cell cycle is a crucial process in GCSE AQA... Show more
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
13
0
M
03/09/2025
Biology
AQA Biology - cell division summary
1,030
•
3 Sept 2025
•
AQA Biology Cell Division Brief Summary - 3 Stages of Cell Cycle GCSE PDF
M
@meas_meadow
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Cancer and Meiosis
Cancer is a result of uncontrolled cell division caused by mutations in genes that control the cell cycle. These mutations lead to the formation of tumors that can invade surrounding tissue.
Cancer treatments often target specific stages of the cell cycle to disrupt tumor cell division. Common targets include the G1 phase (cell growth and protein production) and S phase (DNA replication).
Meiosis is a specialized form of cell division that produces gametes with half the number of chromosomes (haploid) compared to normal body cells (diploid). This process is essential for sexual reproduction.
Definition: Cancer - A disease characterized by uncontrolled cell division forming tumors that can invade surrounding tissue.
Vocabulary: Gametes - Reproductive cells (sperm in males, egg cells in females) with a haploid number of chromosomes.
Highlight: Understanding the 3 stages of cell cycle GCSE AQA is crucial for comprehending both normal cell division and cancer development.
Genetic Variation in Gametes
Meiosis creates genetic variation in gametes through two main processes:
-
Crossing over of chromatids: During meiosis I, homologous chromosomes pair up, and chromatids exchange genetic material. This results in new combinations of alleles.
-
Independent segregation of chromosomes: The random separation of maternal and paternal chromosomes during meiosis I leads to different combinations of chromosomes in daughter cells.
These processes ensure that gametes produced through meiosis are genetically different from each other and the parent cell.
Definition: Crossing over - The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis, creating new combinations of alleles.
Highlight: The creation of genetic variation through meiosis is a key concept in GCSE AQA Biology and is essential for understanding evolution and inheritance.
Example: In humans, meiosis can potentially produce 2^23 different combinations of chromosomes in gametes due to independent assortment alone.
Cell Cycle and Mitosis
The cell cycle is a fundamental process in biology, consisting of interphase and cell division. Interphase is divided into three stages: Gap 1 (G1), Synthesis (S), and Gap 2 (G2).
During interphase, the cell carries out normal functions while preparing for division. DNA is replicated, organelles are duplicated, and ATP content is increased. The cell also grows in size and produces new proteins.
Mitosis is the division of the cell nucleus and occurs in four main stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. This process is crucial for the growth of multicellular organisms and repairing damaged tissues.
Vocabulary: Interphase - The period between cell divisions where the cell grows and prepares for division.
Definition: Mitosis - The process of nuclear division resulting in two genetically identical daughter cells.
Example: A scientist observes a section of growing tissue under a microscope and counts 100 cells undergoing mitosis. Of those, 10 cells are in metaphase. If one complete cell cycle lasts 15 hours, the cells spend 90 minutes in metaphase.
Highlight: The stages of mitosis are crucial for understanding cell division in GCSE AQA Biology.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
AQA Biology Cell Division Brief Summary - 3 Stages of Cell Cycle GCSE PDF
M
@meas_meadow
The cell cycle is a crucial process in GCSE AQA Biology, consisting of interphase and cell division. Interphase involves cell growth and DNA replication, while mitosis is the division of the cell nucleus. Cancer results from uncontrolled cell division... Show more
Cancer and Meiosis
Cancer is a result of uncontrolled cell division caused by mutations in genes that control the cell cycle. These mutations lead to the formation of tumors that can invade surrounding tissue.
Cancer treatments often target specific stages of the cell cycle to disrupt tumor cell division. Common targets include the G1 phase (cell growth and protein production) and S phase (DNA replication).
Meiosis is a specialized form of cell division that produces gametes with half the number of chromosomes (haploid) compared to normal body cells (diploid). This process is essential for sexual reproduction.
Definition: Cancer - A disease characterized by uncontrolled cell division forming tumors that can invade surrounding tissue.
Vocabulary: Gametes - Reproductive cells (sperm in males, egg cells in females) with a haploid number of chromosomes.
Highlight: Understanding the 3 stages of cell cycle GCSE AQA is crucial for comprehending both normal cell division and cancer development.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Genetic Variation in Gametes
Meiosis creates genetic variation in gametes through two main processes:
-
Crossing over of chromatids: During meiosis I, homologous chromosomes pair up, and chromatids exchange genetic material. This results in new combinations of alleles.
-
Independent segregation of chromosomes: The random separation of maternal and paternal chromosomes during meiosis I leads to different combinations of chromosomes in daughter cells.
These processes ensure that gametes produced through meiosis are genetically different from each other and the parent cell.
Definition: Crossing over - The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis, creating new combinations of alleles.
Highlight: The creation of genetic variation through meiosis is a key concept in GCSE AQA Biology and is essential for understanding evolution and inheritance.
Example: In humans, meiosis can potentially produce 2^23 different combinations of chromosomes in gametes due to independent assortment alone.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Cell Cycle and Mitosis
The cell cycle is a fundamental process in biology, consisting of interphase and cell division. Interphase is divided into three stages: Gap 1 (G1), Synthesis (S), and Gap 2 (G2).
During interphase, the cell carries out normal functions while preparing for division. DNA is replicated, organelles are duplicated, and ATP content is increased. The cell also grows in size and produces new proteins.
Mitosis is the division of the cell nucleus and occurs in four main stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. This process is crucial for the growth of multicellular organisms and repairing damaged tissues.
Vocabulary: Interphase - The period between cell divisions where the cell grows and prepares for division.
Definition: Mitosis - The process of nuclear division resulting in two genetically identical daughter cells.
Example: A scientist observes a section of growing tissue under a microscope and counts 100 cells undergoing mitosis. Of those, 10 cells are in metaphase. If one complete cell cycle lasts 15 hours, the cells spend 90 minutes in metaphase.
Highlight: The stages of mitosis are crucial for understanding cell division in GCSE AQA Biology.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user