Hansika R.

the cell cycle is the process by which a cell grows, prepares for division, and then divides to form two daughter cells. It has two main phases: Interphase and M phase. Interphase is the longest phase and is divided into three parts: G₁ phase, S phase, and G₂ phase. In the G₁ phase, the cell grows and prepares the necessary materials for DNA replication. During the S phase, the cell duplicates its DNA so that each new cell will have a complete set of chromosomes. In the G₂ phase, the cell continues to grow and checks for any errors in the copied DNA before moving to division. The M phase is the actual mitotic phase, where the cell divides. Mitosis has four stages: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase. In prophase, chromosomes become visible and the nuclear membrane breaks down. In metaphase, chromosomes line up in the center of the cell. In anaphase, the sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite sides. In telophase, new nuclear membranes form around the separated chromosomes. Finally, cytokinesis takes place, where the cytoplasm divides, and two identical daughter cells are formed. This cycle ensures that each new cell gets the same genetic material as the parent cell.