1. Interphase
2. Prophase
3. Metaphase
4. Anaphase
5. Telophase
6. Cytokinesis
7. Single-celled organism
8. Replicated chromosomes
9. Unreplicated chromosomes
10. Nuclear envelope
11. Spindle fibers
12. Cleavage furrow
C: Interphase - Chromosomes are unreplicated and not visible as distinct structures; the cell grows and performs normal functions.
D: Prophase - Chromosomes condense and become visible; nuclear envelope breaks down; spindle fibers begin to form.
E: Metaphase - Replicated chromosomes line up at the metaphase plate (equator of the cell); spindle fibers attach to centromeres.
F: Anaphase - Sister chromatids separate and are pulled toward opposite poles of the cell by spindle fibers.
G: Telophase - Chromosomes decondense; nuclear envelopes reform around each set of chromosomes; spindle fibers disappear.
Yes, the cells in this cycle can be from either a plant or an animal because the stages of mitosis (Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase) are fundamentally the same in both. The main difference is in cytokinesis: animal cells use a cleavage furrow, while plant cells form a cell plate. Since the diagram shows a cleavage furrow (labeled 12), it specifically depicts an animal cell.
The structures of prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells differ significantly. Prokaryotes lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, so they do not have chromosomes organized within a nuclear envelope or undergo mitosis. Instead, they reproduce via binary fission, where the single circular DNA molecule replicates and the cell divides. Eukaryotes have a nucleus containing multiple linear chromosomes and complex organelles, requiring mitosis to accurately distribute replicated chromosomes during cell division. This fundamental difference arises because eukaryotes evolved mechanisms to manage larger genomes and more complex cellular organization.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of cell cycle worksheet answer key.
