Biology · Virtual lab
Cell Cycle and Cell Division
Interactive simulation of the cell cycle and mitosis.
Background
The cell cycle is the series of events a cell goes through from one division to the next. It consists of interphase (G1, S, and G2 phases) where the cell grows and replicates its DNA, followed by the mitotic phase (M phase) where the cell physically divides into two daughter cells.
Mitosis ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical copy of the parent cell's genetic material. The process unfolds in four stages (prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase), each with distinct chromosomal behaviours visible under a microscope.
In this virtual lab you observe each stage of the cell cycle in real time, identify key structures such as the spindle apparatus and cleavage furrow, and understand how checkpoints regulate progression through the cycle.
What you will learn
- Identify the stages of the cell cycle and their durations
- Observe chromosome behaviour during prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase
- Understand the role of cell-cycle checkpoints
- Distinguish between mitosis and cytokinesis
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