What is the process of mitosis in cell division?

Mitosis is the process of cell division that occurs in somatic cells, which are all cells in the body except for the reproductive cells. This process ensures that each new cell produced by cell division has an identical set of chromosomes as the original cell. The process of mitosis can be divided into four stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

During prophase, the chromatin in the cell condenses into visible chromosomes. Each chromosome has two identical sister chromatids that are connected at a region called the centromere. At this stage, the nuclear envelope also breaks down and the spindle fibers begin to form.

In metaphase, the chromosomes align at the equator of the cell, known as the metaphase plate. This alignment ensures that each daughter cell receives an equal number of chromosomes during cell division.

In anaphase, the sister chromatids separate and are pulled apart by the spindle fibers toward opposite ends of the cell.

Finally, during telophase, the cell prepares to divide into two daughter cells. A new nuclear envelope begins to form around the chromosomes at each end of the cell, and the spindle fibers begin to break down. The cell then divides into two daughter cells through a process called cytokinesis.

The process of mitosis is critical for growth, development, and repair of the body's tissues. It allows for the formation of two identical daughter cells that each contain the same genetic material as the original parent cell.