Interphase

 Prepares the cell for division.

 Beginning of interphase we have one daughter cell consist of chromosome with one
chromatid

Gap 1

 Chromosomes inside the cell have not yet replicated in G1, so each chromosome
contains only one DNA molecule.
 During this stage, the cell performs its normal functions, and grows in size. The cell
replicates organelles as necessary.
 If the cell is an actively dividing cell, it will continue interphase by entering the next
phase synthesis.
 Makes extra organelles

Synthesis

 During synthesis, the cell pauses its normal functioning. All resources are dedicated to
replicating the DNA. This process starts with the two entwined strands of DNA being
“unzipped” by various proteins. Other proteins, known as polymerase enzymes, start
creating new strands to pair with each half of the DNA. This is done on
each chromosome, which creates an identical copy of each, bound together as sister
chromatids. If the cell is a somatic cell, it will enter mitosis after interphase and the sister
chromatids will be separated, creating two identical copies of the genome in each cell. If
the cell will give rise to a gamete it will enter meiosis after interphase. In
meiosis, homologous chromosomes are separated in one division, then
sister chromatid in the next, creating cells with only half of a full genome. These cells
enter interphase, but synthesis stage cannot occur until fertilization occurs with another
gamete. Either way, after synthesis, the cell must prepare for cell division.
 In this phase we have 23 pairs of chromosomes and we duplicate them and we end up
with 46 pairs

 After S phase completes, chromosomes have two chromatids, meaning each chromosome
has two molecules of DNA. This stage is not distinctly visible through a microscope
because material inside the cell is too diffuse.

G2
 During this phase micro-tubules begin to reorganize to form a spindle (preprophase).
Before proceeding to mitotic phase, cells must be checked at the G2 checkpoint for any
DNA damage within the chromosomes.
 The cell synthesizes more proteins, and organelles like mitochondria grow and divide.
The cell also resumes normal functions like transforming food into fuel; cells stock up on
this energy for its use in mitosis. G2 is the final step before a cell enters the first stage of
mitosis.
 During G2 the cell the cell adds volume to the cytoplasm, and replicates many important
organelles.
