Summary
Nuclear division that produces two genetically identical daughter nuclei with the same chromosome number as the parent.
In depth
Phases: prophase (condensation, spindle forms), prometaphase (envelope breaks, kinetochores attach), metaphase (alignment), anaphase (chromatids separate) and telophase (nuclei re-form). The spindle is built from microtubules organised by centrosomes.
The result is two daughter nuclei each with the same chromosome number and genetic information as the parent (2n to 2n). It supports growth, tissue repair and asexual reproduction.
Common mistake: homologous chromosomes do not pair in mitosis; that happens only in meiosis I.
Frequently asked questions
What is Mitosis?
Nuclear division that produces two genetically identical daughter nuclei with the same chromosome number as the parent.
Which area of biology covers Mitosis, and how advanced is it?
Mitosis is one of the 52 topics in Cell Biology. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Meiosis, Cell Cycle, Cytokinesis.
What should I learn before Mitosis?
Work through the Beginner topics in Cell Biology first, such as Cell Theory, Prokaryotic Cell, Eukaryotic Cell, then return to Mitosis. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Mitosis?
The closest topics to Mitosis are Meiosis, Cell Cycle, Cytokinesis, Microtubule Dynamics. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Mitosis?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Mitosis. To practise the whole of Cell Biology, use the Cell Biology quiz.
How is Mitosis different from Meiosis?
Mitosis: Nuclear division that produces two genetically identical daughter nuclei with the same chromosome number as the parent. Meiosis: Two rounds of division that halve chromosome number to form genetically varied haploid gametes. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
What is a common mistake about Mitosis?
Homologous chromosomes do not pair in mitosis; that happens only in meiosis I.
How should I study Mitosis step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Meiosis and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Cell Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.