How does mitosis occur?
Mitosis distributes duplicated chromosomes into two nuclei in eukaryotic cells. It supports growth, tissue renewal, and some forms of asexual reproduction. DNA replication occurs beforehand, during the S phase of the cell cycle.
Orderly chromosome separation
Chromatin condenses, spindle fibers connect to chromosomes, and sister chromatids separate toward opposite poles. Stages such as prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase describe a continuous process. Cytokinesis divides the cytoplasm and is distinct from nuclear division. Plant cells build a cell plate, while animal cells typically form a cleavage furrow.
Checkpoints and differences from meiosis
Cell-cycle controls monitor DNA damage and chromosome attachment. Mitosis generally preserves chromosome complement, whereas meiosis includes specialized divisions reducing it in sexual life cycles. Daughter cells usually receive highly similar genetic information, but mutations and segregation errors remain possible. Not all cells in a multicellular organism divide equally often; some remain outside the cycle for extended periods.