9700 · 5.2
Chromosome behaviour in mitosis flashcards
Revision flashcards for Cambridge 9700 Chromosome behaviour in mitosis (syllabus 5.2). Flip, recall, then mark a real past-paper question.
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What is the main outcome of mitosis?
The production of two genetically identical diploid (2n) daughter cells from a single parent cell.
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Name the four main stages of mitosis in order.
Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase. (Mnemonic: PMAT)
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What are the key events of Prophase?
Chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, the nuclear envelope breaks down, centrioles move to opposite poles, and the mitotic spindle begins to form.
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How are chromosomes arranged during Metaphase?
Chromosomes, each made of two sister chromatids, align along the metaphase plate (the cell's equator).
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What happens to sister chromatids during Anaphase?
The centromeres divide, and the sister chromatids separate. They are pulled to opposite poles of the cell and are now considered individual chromosomes.
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Describe the main events of Telophase.
Chromosomes arrive at the poles and decondense back into chromatin. A new nuclear envelope forms around each set of chromosomes, and the spindle fibres disappear. Cytokinesis typically begins.
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What is the function of the centromere?
It is the specialized region of a chromosome where sister chromatids are joined. It also contains the kinetochore, where spindle fibres attach during mitosis.
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How does cytokinesis differ in plant and animal cells?
In animal cells, a cleavage furrow forms and pinches the cell in two. In plant cells, a cell plate forms in the middle and develops into a new cell wall, separating the two daughter cells.