During this process, the nucleus of a cell divides to form two nuclei that are identical to the original cell.
This process is called cell division, specifically referred to as mitosis. Mitosis is a crucial part of the cell cycle, which is the series of events that occurs in a cell leading to its division and duplication.
During mitosis, the nucleus of a cell goes through a series of carefully orchestrated stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
In prophase, the chromatin (DNA) in the nucleus condenses and becomes visible as distinct chromosomes. The nuclear envelope also breaks down during this stage.
Next, in metaphase, the chromosomes align themselves along the center of the cell in a line called the metaphase plate.
In anaphase, the sister chromatids of each chromosome separate and move towards opposite poles of the cell. This separation is facilitated by microtubules of the spindle apparatus.
Finally, in telophase, the chromosomes reach the opposite ends of the cell. The nuclear envelope reforms around each set of chromosomes, and the chromosomes begin to uncoil back into chromatin. At this point, mitosis is nearly complete.
Following mitosis, the cell undergoes cytokinesis, where the cytoplasm divides, resulting in two separate daughter cells. Each daughter cell contains an identical copy of the genetic material from the original cell.