To prepare for division, cells go through several steps to ensure successful cell division. These steps include:
1. Interphase: Before division, cells spend most of their time in interphase, which consists of three stages - G1, S, and G2. During this phase, the cell grows, duplicates its DNA, and prepares for division.
2. Checkpoints: Throughout the cell cycle, checkpoints are present to monitor the integrity and accuracy of DNA replication. These checkpoints ensure that cells are ready for division and can detect and repair any DNA damage before proceeding.
3. Mitosis: Mitosis is the process of cell division that consists of four stages - prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. During mitosis, the duplicated chromosomes condense, align at the center of the cell, separate, and move to opposite ends of the cell, forming two identical daughter cells.
4. Cytokinesis: After mitosis, cytokinesis occurs, which is the physical separation of the cell into two daughter cells. In animal cells, a contractile ring of actin and myosin filaments forms, causing the cell membrane to pinch inward and eventually divide the cell. In plant cells, a new cell wall is formed through the deposition of cellulose, separating the two daughter cells.
Overall, the preparation for division involves the growth, duplication, and coordination of cellular structures and processes to ensure the accurate separation of genetic material and successful division into two daughter cells.