Cells divide in a series of stages called the cell cycle.

Complete the sentences. Choose answers from the box.

contracts, divides, grows, reacts, relaxes, replicates

Before mitosis occurs, the cell ______.
The genetic material in the cell doubles when the DNA ______.
After the chromosomes have been pulled to each end of the cell, the cytoplasm ______.

The cell cycle consists of two main phases: interphase and mitosis. 1. **Interphase:** This is the longest phase. During this time, the cell carries out its normal functions and prepares for division. This preparation involves increasing in size, making more sub-cellular structures (like mitochondria and ribosomes), and growing. 2. **DNA Replication:** Still during interphase, the cell's DNA is copied exactly. This process is called replication, ensuring that each new cell will get a full set of genetic material. 3. **Mitosis and Cytokinesis:** Mitosis is the process where the nucleus divides. After the chromosomes have been separated to opposite poles of the cell, the final stage is cytokinesis, where the cytoplasm divides to form two separate daughter cells.