Only one cell division occurs during mitosis.
Mitosis is a fundamental process in cell biology where a single cell divides into two identical daughter cells. This division is critical for growth, tissue repair, and asexual reproduction in eukaryotic organisms.
Understanding the Mitotic Process:
The essence of mitosis is to distribute the duplicated chromosomes accurately into two new nuclei. The process involves a series of distinct stages, but the key aspect regarding the number of cell divisions is that it happens just once. Here’s what happens:
- Chromosome Duplication: Before mitosis begins, the cell's DNA is replicated, resulting in two identical copies of each chromosome, known as sister chromatids.
- Chromosomal Separation: During mitosis, the duplicated chromosomes align in the middle of the cell, then the sister chromatids are pulled apart by spindle fibers to opposite poles of the cell. This ensures that each new nucleus will receive a complete and identical set of chromosomes.
- Nuclear Division: Following chromosome separation, the nuclear membrane pinches together, eventually creating two completely separate nuclei, as noted in the reference. Each new nucleus contains a complete set of chromosomes, identical to the original parent cell's nucleus.
- Cell Division (Cytokinesis): Finally, the cell itself divides, resulting in two new daughter cells. Each daughter cell receives one of the newly formed nuclei and a full set of cellular components.
Key Takeaway:
While the mitotic process involves several distinct phases, it concludes with one single division event of the cell nucleus and the subsequent splitting of the cell into two separate entities. The process is designed to produce two genetically identical cells from a single parent cell.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of Divisions | One |
| Purpose | To produce two identical daughter cells for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction |
| Chromosome Replication | Occurs before mitosis, resulting in sister chromatids |
| Outcome | Two genetically identical nuclei, followed by cell division (cytokinesis), resulting in two identical daughter cells |
