3.08 The Cell: Mitosis

Ahh, life at the Lots-O-Palms Oasis. Fresh dates with cream cheese and some cool water; it doesn't get any better than this. Well my friends, it's almost time for us to part ways; much like when a mature cell divides, we must part, take our knowledge, and spread it across the landscape. Just a minute, and I'll cut up some of those melons; they're so refreshing on a hot day. Let's check out our map below to make sure we stay on the right path as we head back to the bus terminal.

In this activity you will: sequence the stages of mitosis relate mitosis to growth and repair recall the types of cells that undergo mitosis The Honors student will: investigate the cell cycle

Growth and Repair

Ouch! My finger, my finger, get a tourniquet, no more cutting melons for me today! I hope this won't need stitches. To repair the damage that a knife cut or any wound causes, cells must divide and replace the dead and damaged cells of the wound.

Even though a human body can't grow a whole new arm if one is removed, like a lizard can regrow a tail, it does have remarkable powers to replace injured cells.

How does this happen? Where do all those cells come from? Anytime an organism grows or repairs a damaged or worn out part, new cells are being made. Cells reproduce by a process called mitosis. Mitosis is the process where a cell divides and the outcome is two identical cells.

Move on to the BioVenture tab to continue this adventure.