Ever wondered how you grew from a single cell into... Show more
English Literature
SociologySign 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
546
•
10 Jan 2026
•
The Cell Cycle and Mitosis Explained
Huang
@ramisha_356
1 / 3
The Cell Cycle Overview
Your body is constantly creating new cells through a clever three-stage process called the cell cycle. Think of it like a factory production line that never stops - cells grow, copy themselves, and then split into two identical daughter cells.
The three main stages work together perfectly: Interphase (where the cell prepares), Mitosis (where the nucleus divides), and Cytokinesis (where the cell actually splits apart). What's brilliant is that each new cell ends up with exactly the same number of chromosomes as the original parent cell.
Mitosis is the star of the show - it's the type of cell division that ensures your new cells have identical genetic information. Meanwhile, cytokinesis does the physical work of pinching the cell in half, like squeezing a balloon until it separates into two parts.
Remember: The cell cycle creates two identical daughter cells from one parent cell - this is how you grow and heal!
The Three Stages Explained
Interphase is where cells spend about 90% of their time - it's like the preparation phase before the big event. During G1 phase, the cell grows bigger and makes more organelles like mitochondria and ribosomes. Then comes the Synthesis phase, where something incredible happens - the DNA copies itself, doubling the chromosome count to 92! Finally, G2 phase sees the cell grow even more and create all the molecules needed for division.
Mitosis has four parts you can remember with PMAT. In Prophase, chromosomes shorten and thicken up. Metaphase sees them line up perfectly in the cell's middle while spindle fibres attach. During Anaphase, these fibres pull the chromosome parts to opposite ends. Telophase wraps things up by forming two new nuclei.
Cytokinesis is the final physical split - imagine the cell membrane pinching inwards at the middle until it completely separates. You now have two brand new, identical cells ready to start their own cycles!
Top Tip: Remember PMAT for mitosis phases - Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase!
Key Facts You Need to Know
Here are the essential points that often pop up in tests and will help you understand cell division better.
Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes (46 total), but gametes (sex cells like sperm and eggs) contain only 23 chromosomes - exactly half. This is crucial for reproduction because when gametes combine, they create a new organism with the full set of 46 chromosomes.
Cells are actually quite lazy in the best way possible - they spend 90% of their time in Interphase just growing and preparing. The dramatic splitting action of mitosis and cytokinesis happens relatively quickly compared to all that preparation time.
The G1 and G2 phases are called "Gap phases" because they're the periods between the major events - they're like intermissions where the cell gets ready for what comes next.
Quick Check: Can you explain why gametes need only 23 chromosomes instead of 46?
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.
Most popular content in Biology
Most popular content
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 Knowunity AI. 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 Knowunity AI. 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 Cell Cycle and Mitosis Explained
Huang
@ramisha_356
Ever wondered how you grew from a single cell into who you are today? The cell cycleis the amazing process that allows cells to divide and create identical copies of themselves, making growth and repair possible in all living... Show more
The Cell Cycle Overview
Your body is constantly creating new cells through a clever three-stage process called the cell cycle. Think of it like a factory production line that never stops - cells grow, copy themselves, and then split into two identical daughter cells.
The three main stages work together perfectly: Interphase (where the cell prepares), Mitosis (where the nucleus divides), and Cytokinesis (where the cell actually splits apart). What's brilliant is that each new cell ends up with exactly the same number of chromosomes as the original parent cell.
Mitosis is the star of the show - it's the type of cell division that ensures your new cells have identical genetic information. Meanwhile, cytokinesis does the physical work of pinching the cell in half, like squeezing a balloon until it separates into two parts.
Remember: The cell cycle creates two identical daughter cells from one parent cell - this is how you grow and heal!
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
The Three Stages Explained
Interphase is where cells spend about 90% of their time - it's like the preparation phase before the big event. During G1 phase, the cell grows bigger and makes more organelles like mitochondria and ribosomes. Then comes the Synthesis phase, where something incredible happens - the DNA copies itself, doubling the chromosome count to 92! Finally, G2 phase sees the cell grow even more and create all the molecules needed for division.
Mitosis has four parts you can remember with PMAT. In Prophase, chromosomes shorten and thicken up. Metaphase sees them line up perfectly in the cell's middle while spindle fibres attach. During Anaphase, these fibres pull the chromosome parts to opposite ends. Telophase wraps things up by forming two new nuclei.
Cytokinesis is the final physical split - imagine the cell membrane pinching inwards at the middle until it completely separates. You now have two brand new, identical cells ready to start their own cycles!
Top Tip: Remember PMAT for mitosis phases - Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase!
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
Key Facts You Need to Know
Here are the essential points that often pop up in tests and will help you understand cell division better.
Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes (46 total), but gametes (sex cells like sperm and eggs) contain only 23 chromosomes - exactly half. This is crucial for reproduction because when gametes combine, they create a new organism with the full set of 46 chromosomes.
Cells are actually quite lazy in the best way possible - they spend 90% of their time in Interphase just growing and preparing. The dramatic splitting action of mitosis and cytokinesis happens relatively quickly compared to all that preparation time.
The G1 and G2 phases are called "Gap phases" because they're the periods between the major events - they're like intermissions where the cell gets ready for what comes next.
Quick Check: Can you explain why gametes need only 23 chromosomes instead of 46?
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.
26
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Similar content
Cell Biology Essentials
Explore the fundamental concepts of Cell Biology, including cell structure, mitosis, transport mechanisms, and specialized cells. This summary covers key topics such as the cell cycle, diffusion, osmosis, and stem cell applications, tailored for AQA specifications. Ideal for revision and self-testing.
Biology9
Cell Biology Essentials
Explore the fundamental concepts of cell biology, including cell structure, mitosis, and transport mechanisms. This summary covers key topics such as active transport, diffusion, and the roles of various cellular components. Ideal for students preparing for exams or seeking a concise overview of cellular functions.
Biology9
Biology Paper 1 Overview
Explore essential concepts for Biology Paper 1, including eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell structures, mitosis, enzyme functions, and the human circulatory and digestive systems. This comprehensive summary is perfect for exam preparation and understanding key biological processes.
Biology10
Mitosis Stages Explained
Explore the detailed stages of mitosis, including interphase, prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. This summary covers key concepts of cell division, cellular regeneration, and the implications of uncontrolled cell division, such as cancer. Ideal for GCSE biology students.
Biology9
Cell Biology Overview
Explore the fundamental concepts of cell biology, including prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, cell specialization, and the organization of tissues and organs. This summary covers the advantages of light and electron microscopes, key cellular structures, and the processes of cell differentiation. Ideal for GCSE Biology students preparing for exams.
Biology9
Mitosis and Cytokinesis Overview
Explore the stages of mitosis (Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase) and the process of cytokinesis. This summary covers the key events in the mitotic phase of the cell cycle, detailing how genetic material is divided and how two new cells are formed. Ideal for students studying cell division and the cell cycle.
Biology12
Most popular content in Biology
Most popular content
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 Knowunity AI. 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 Knowunity AI. 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