the cell grows in size

synthesizes mRNA and protein
that are required for DNA synthesis

DNA REPLICATION

rapid cell growth

protein synthesis

separates the duplicated genetic material carried in the nucleus of a parent cell into two identical daughter cells

individual chromosomes are spread out in the cell nucleus

nucleus dissolves

the cell's chromosomes condense and move together, aligning in the center of the dividing cell

separated chromatids move toward the opposite poles of the spindle apparatus

the spindle disappears

the nucleus forms around each set of daughter chromosomes