FOCUS QUESTION

What happens during each phase of mitosis?

The map breaks this topic into its core concepts, connected by labeled relationships. Each link is written so it can be read as a complete statement — not just an unlabeled line between boxes.

Concepts and relationships

  • Mitosis begins after Interphase.
  • Interphase leads to Prophase.
  • Prophase is followed by Metaphase.
  • Metaphase is followed by Anaphase.
  • Anaphase is followed by Telophase.
  • Telophase overlaps with Cytokinesis.
  • Cytokinesis divides the cell into Two Identical Cells.
  • Metaphase aligns the Chromosomes.
  • Anaphase separates the Chromosomes.

How to read this map

Read the phases in order (a simplified PMAT model) and note what happens to the chromosomes. Cytokinesis, which divides the cytoplasm, overlaps with telophase rather than starting only after mitosis ends.

Learning objectives

  • Order the phases of mitosis.
  • Describe chromosome behavior in each phase.
  • Distinguish mitosis (nuclear division) from cytokinesis (cytoplasmic division).
  • Contrast mitosis with meiosis.
Editorial note: Simplified PMAT teaching model. Phase names, and the mitosis/cytokinesis distinction, checked for language and structure; subject-expert review is still pending. Sources: OpenStax Biology 2e — 10.2 The Cell Cycle.