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Winnie :)
02/10/2025
Biology
Biology - Mitosis Key Definitions
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2 Oct 2025
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Biology Mitosis Definitions and Stages for GCSE: 4 Stages, Diagrams, and Meiosis
Winnie :)
@winniewester_ezhq
Advanced Concepts in Cell Division and Genetics
This page delves into more complex terms and processes related to cell division, chromosomal behavior, and genetic variation. It covers important structures and events that occur during mitosis and meiosis.
Definition: Gametes are reproductive cells, such as sperm and egg cells, while somatic cells are any body cells that are not germ cells (reproductive cells).
Key structures and concepts:
- Spindle fibres: Protein structures that move chromosomes to opposite poles during cell division
- Centrioles: Structures in the cytoplasm where spindle fibres form, part of the cytoskeleton
- Chromatids: One half of a replicated chromosome, joined to the other half at the centromere
- Sister chromatids: Two identical copies of a parent chromosome attached at the centromere
Highlight: Replicated chromosomes contain two identical sister chromatids, while unreplicated chromosomes consist of only one double strand.
Genetic terms and processes:
- Allele: One variant of a particular gene, e.g., for eye color
- Gene: A section of a chromosome that codes for a product (protein or RNA)
- Homologous chromosomes: Chromosomes that are identical in terms of size, shape, banding pattern, and array of genes
Vocabulary: A bivalent chromosome is one pair of chromosomes (sister chromatids) in a tetrad, formed in prophase I of meiosis.
Important processes in genetic variation:
- Independent assortment: The process in metaphase I where alleles of genes swap into different chromosomes, resulting in unique chromosome combinations
- Crossing over: The exchange of DNA sections between homologous chromosomes, taking place in prophase I of meiosis
Example: Crossing over and independent assortment contribute to genetic diversity in offspring, which is crucial for evolution and adaptation.
These advanced concepts build upon the basic understanding of mitosis and cell division, providing a comprehensive view of the complex processes involved in cellular reproduction and genetic inheritance.
Mitosis and DNA: Key Definitions and Concepts
This page provides essential definitions and explanations for understanding mitosis and DNA-related terms in cell division. It covers the fundamental processes and structures involved in the cell cycle and mitotic division.
Definition: Mitosis is the process of cell division in which daughter cells are genetically identical to each other and the mother cell.
Vocabulary: The cell cycle is the progression of a parent cell from growth and development, through DNA synthesis, to cell division, producing daughter cells.
The cell cycle consists of interphase and mitosis. Interphase is divided into three stages:
- G₁ phase: Cell growth and development
- S phase: DNA replication
- G₂ phase: Organelle replication and protein synthesis
Highlight: During the S phase, DNA synthesis occurs. The two strands of the DNA double helix separate, each serving as a template for the synthesis of a complementary daughter strand.
Key structures involved in mitosis include:
- Chromosomes: Structures in eukaryotic nuclei, contained in two helices when replicated and one when unreplicated
- DNA double helix: The structure of genetic material, consisting of two complementary strands that twist around each other like a spiral
- Chromatin: The substance within a chromosome, consisting of DNA and protein
Example: In human somatic cells, which are diploid, there are 46 chromosomes arranged in 23 pairs.
The stages of mitosis are:
- Prophase: Replicated chromosomes condense, the nuclear envelope disappears, and centrioles migrate
- Metaphase: Replicated chromosomes align at the cell's equator
- Anaphase: Sister chromatids separate, and daughter chromosomes migrate to opposite poles
- Telophase: The nuclear envelope reforms, and spindle fibres disappear, resulting in two genetically identical daughter cells
Vocabulary: Cytokinesis is the division of the cytoplasm at the end of nuclear division, completing the formation of two separate daughter cells.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
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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
Biology Mitosis Definitions and Stages for GCSE: 4 Stages, Diagrams, and Meiosis
Winnie :)
@winniewester_ezhq
Cell Division and Mitosis: A Comprehensive Guide for GCSE Biology
Mitosis is a crucial process in cell division, resulting in genetically identical daughter cells. This guide covers key concepts, stages, and related terms essential for understanding mitosis and cell division... Show more
Advanced Concepts in Cell Division and Genetics
This page delves into more complex terms and processes related to cell division, chromosomal behavior, and genetic variation. It covers important structures and events that occur during mitosis and meiosis.
Definition: Gametes are reproductive cells, such as sperm and egg cells, while somatic cells are any body cells that are not germ cells (reproductive cells).
Key structures and concepts:
- Spindle fibres: Protein structures that move chromosomes to opposite poles during cell division
- Centrioles: Structures in the cytoplasm where spindle fibres form, part of the cytoskeleton
- Chromatids: One half of a replicated chromosome, joined to the other half at the centromere
- Sister chromatids: Two identical copies of a parent chromosome attached at the centromere
Highlight: Replicated chromosomes contain two identical sister chromatids, while unreplicated chromosomes consist of only one double strand.
Genetic terms and processes:
- Allele: One variant of a particular gene, e.g., for eye color
- Gene: A section of a chromosome that codes for a product (protein or RNA)
- Homologous chromosomes: Chromosomes that are identical in terms of size, shape, banding pattern, and array of genes
Vocabulary: A bivalent chromosome is one pair of chromosomes (sister chromatids) in a tetrad, formed in prophase I of meiosis.
Important processes in genetic variation:
- Independent assortment: The process in metaphase I where alleles of genes swap into different chromosomes, resulting in unique chromosome combinations
- Crossing over: The exchange of DNA sections between homologous chromosomes, taking place in prophase I of meiosis
Example: Crossing over and independent assortment contribute to genetic diversity in offspring, which is crucial for evolution and adaptation.
These advanced concepts build upon the basic understanding of mitosis and cell division, providing a comprehensive view of the complex processes involved in cellular reproduction and genetic inheritance.
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Improve your grades
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By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Mitosis and DNA: Key Definitions and Concepts
This page provides essential definitions and explanations for understanding mitosis and DNA-related terms in cell division. It covers the fundamental processes and structures involved in the cell cycle and mitotic division.
Definition: Mitosis is the process of cell division in which daughter cells are genetically identical to each other and the mother cell.
Vocabulary: The cell cycle is the progression of a parent cell from growth and development, through DNA synthesis, to cell division, producing daughter cells.
The cell cycle consists of interphase and mitosis. Interphase is divided into three stages:
- G₁ phase: Cell growth and development
- S phase: DNA replication
- G₂ phase: Organelle replication and protein synthesis
Highlight: During the S phase, DNA synthesis occurs. The two strands of the DNA double helix separate, each serving as a template for the synthesis of a complementary daughter strand.
Key structures involved in mitosis include:
- Chromosomes: Structures in eukaryotic nuclei, contained in two helices when replicated and one when unreplicated
- DNA double helix: The structure of genetic material, consisting of two complementary strands that twist around each other like a spiral
- Chromatin: The substance within a chromosome, consisting of DNA and protein
Example: In human somatic cells, which are diploid, there are 46 chromosomes arranged in 23 pairs.
The stages of mitosis are:
- Prophase: Replicated chromosomes condense, the nuclear envelope disappears, and centrioles migrate
- Metaphase: Replicated chromosomes align at the cell's equator
- Anaphase: Sister chromatids separate, and daughter chromosomes migrate to opposite poles
- Telophase: The nuclear envelope reforms, and spindle fibres disappear, resulting in two genetically identical daughter cells
Vocabulary: Cytokinesis is the division of the cytoplasm at the end of nuclear division, completing the formation of two separate daughter cells.
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?
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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