what is mitosis

Mitosis is a process of cell division in which a single cell divides into two identical daughter cells. The major purpose of mitosis is for growth and to replace worn-out cells. The process of mitosis is divided into five phases: interphase, prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. During interphase, the DNA in the cell is copied in preparation for cell division, resulting in two identical full sets of chromosomes. Outside of the nucleus are two centrosomes, each containing a pair of centrioles, which are critical for the process of cell division. During prophase, the chromosomes condense into X-shaped structures that can be easily seen under a microscope. Each chromosome is composed of two sister chromatids, containing identical genetic information. The chromosomes pair up so that both copies of chromosome 1 are together, both copies of chromosome 2 are together, and so on. During metaphase, the chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell. During anaphase, the sister chromatids separate and move to opposite ends of the cell. Finally, during telophase, the cell divides into two identical daughter cells. Mitosis is important because it produces genetically identical cells in which the total number of chromosomes is maintained.