Class 11 Biology

Cell Division

Phases of Cell Cycle

The cell cycle is divided into two basic phases:

Interphase: The phase between subsequent cell divisions is called the interphase. The interphase lasts for more than 95% of the cell cycle.

M Phase (Mitosis phase): The actual cell division takes place in the M phase. The M phase lasts for less than 5% of the cell cycle. The M phase is composed of two major steps, viz. karyokinesis and cytokinesis. Division of nucleus happens during karyokinesis. Division of cytoplasm happens during cytokinesis.

The interphase is further divided into three phases, which are as follows:

  1. G1 phase (Gap 1): During this phase, the cell is metabolically active and continuously grows.
  2. S phase (Synthesis): During this phase, DNA synthesis or replication takes place. The amount of DNA becomes double during this phase, but the number of chromosomes remains the same.
  3. G2 phase (Gap 2): During this phase, protein synthesis takes place.

Quiescent Stage (G0): Cells which do not divide further, exit G1 phase to enter an inactive stage. This stage is called quiescent stage (G0) of the cell cycle. The cells in this stage remain metabolically active but do not undergo division. But these cells can resume division as and when required.

M PHASE

Mitosis is divided into four stages, viz. Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase and Telophase

Prophase

prophase

Metaphase

metaphase

Anaphase

anaphase

Telophase

telophase

Cytokinesis

Division of cytoplasm is achieved by cytokinesis. In animal cell, a furrow appears in the plasma membrane. The furrow gradually deepens and finally joins in the centre. Thus, the cytoplasm is divided into two parts. In plant cells, cell wall formation begins in the centre. This grows outwards to meet the existing lateral walls and thus, the cytoplasm is divided into two parts.

Significance of Mitosis