What is meant by the term cell division? How does it take place ?
Cell Division:
Cell division is the process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells. It is a crucial process for growth, repair, and reproduction in living organisms.
Types of Cell Division:
There are two main types of cell division:
- Mitosis: This type of cell division produces two identical daughter cells with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell.
- Meiosis: This type of cell division is involved in sexual reproduction and produces four daughter cells with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.
Process of Cell Division:
1. Interphase:
- This is the phase before cell division where the cell prepares for division by growing, carrying out its normal functions, and replicating its DNA.
2. Mitosis:
- Prophase: Chromosomes condense and become visible, the nuclear membrane breaks down.
- Metaphase: Chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell.
- Anaphase: Chromatids separate and move to opposite ends of the cell.
- Telophase: Chromatids reach the poles, nuclear membrane reforms, and chromosomes decondense.
3. Cytokinesis:
- This is the final stage where the cytoplasm divides, creating two daughter cells with identical genetic material.
Significance of Cell Division:
Cell division plays a crucial role in growth, development, and repair of tissues in multicellular organisms. It helps in replacing old or damaged cells with new ones, ensuring the proper functioning of the organism. Additionally, cell division is essential for reproduction in both unicellular and multicellular organisms.
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