Mitosis is conventionally divided into distinct phases, rather than "types" of division. These phases represent a continuous process, but are categorized for easier understanding of the various events taking place.
Here's a breakdown of the phases of mitosis, based on the provided reference:
The Phases of Mitosis
Mitosis ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes. The process, according to our reference, is conventionally divided into five main phases:
| Phase | Description |
|---|---|
| Prophase | The chromosomes condense and become visible. The nuclear envelope breaks down, and the mitotic spindle begins to form. |
| Metaphase | The chromosomes line up along the metaphase plate (the equator of the cell). The spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes. |
| Anaphase | The sister chromatids separate and move to opposite poles of the cell. |
| Telophase | The chromosomes arrive at the poles and begin to decondense. The nuclear envelope reforms around each set of chromosomes. |
| Cytokinesis | The cytoplasm divides, resulting in two separate daughter cells. |
Essentially, the terms "types" and "phases" are being used differently. There aren't different types of mitosis, but rather distinct phases that occur in a specific order during the mitotic process.
