An ordered sequence of events in the life of a dividing cell, composed of the M, G1,S, and G2 phases. Mitosis occurs during the M phase.

Interphase occurs for the longest period of time during the cell cycle.

DNA and chromosomes are duplicated in the nucleus.

The long thin chromosomes become thicker and shorter. Each chromosome now appears as a doubled structure joined at a centromere.

Centrioles begin to move to opposite ends of the cell (there are no centrioles in plant cells)

Nuclear envelope breaks down and cytoplasmic fibers stretch from centriole to centriole.

Cytoplasmic fibers now are attached to each doubled chromosome at the centromere.

The new chromosomes are pulled to opposite ends of the cell by the cytoplasmic fibers.

Now the separated chromosomes approach the opposite ends of the cell and group together.

The cytoplasm begins to divide and a new cell membrane forms. (In plant cells a new cell wall is laid down between the two new cells.)

Divides the cytoplasm into two cells and completes a full stage of the cell cycle.