The cell cycle has two main phases: interphase and M phase. During interphase, the cell grows in G₁, copies its DNA in the S phase, and prepares for division in G₂. Then comes the M phase, where the cell actually divides. It starts with prophase, where chromosomes become visible and the nuclear membrane breaks down. In metaphase, chromosomes line up in the middle, followed by anaphase, where they are pulled apart. Finally, in telophase, new nuclei form, and the cell splits during cytokinesis, forming two identical cells.