The two broad steps of the mitosis process, as identified by Flemming, are a progressive phase and a regressive phase.
Mitosis Stages
Here's a breakdown of these two phases:
Progressive Phase
This phase is characterized by:
- Chromosome Condensation: During this part of mitosis, the chromosomes, which are the structures carrying genetic information, become more compact and visible.
- Chromosome Alignment: The condensed chromosomes move and align themselves at the center of the cell, specifically at the spindle's equator.
- This alignment is crucial to ensure that each daughter cell receives a complete and accurate copy of the genetic material.
Regressive Phase
The main event in this phase is:
- Sister Chromatid Separation: The sister chromatids, which are identical copies of a single chromosome formed during DNA replication, separate and move to opposite poles of the cell.
- This separation of chromatids marks the beginning of the formation of two new daughter cells with identical genetic information.
In essence, the first phase prepares the chromosomes for separation, and the second phase executes the separation itself.
| Phase | Key Events |
|---|---|
| Progressive | Chromosome condensation and alignment |
| Regressive | Sister chromatid separation |
