Explain the mitotic cell division with the help of a series of labelled diagrams.

Answer

### Step-by-Step Text Solution for Mitotic Cell Division

**Step 1: Definition of Mitotic Cell Division**
Mitotic cell division, also known as equational division, is the process by which a single cell divides to produce two genetically identical daughter cells. The chromosome number remains the same (2n) in both the parent and daughter cells.

**Step 2: Phases of Mitosis**
Mitosis is divided into several distinct phases: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase, followed by Cytokinesis.

**Step 3: Prophase**
- In this phase, the chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes. Each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids joined at the centromere.
- The nuclear envelope begins to break down, and spindle fibers start to form from the centrosomes.
- **Diagram**: Show chromosomes with distinct sister chromatids, spindle fibers emerging, and the nuclear envelope disintegrating.

**Step 4: Metaphase**
- The chromosomes align along the equatorial plane of the cell, known as the metaphase plate.
- Spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes, ensuring that each sister chromatid is connected to opposite poles of the cell.
- **Diagram**: Illustrate chromosomes lined up at the metaphase plate with spindle fibers attached.

**Step 5: Anaphase**
- The sister chromatids are pulled apart by the spindle fibers towards opposite poles of the cell.
- Each chromatid is now considered a separate chromosome.
- **Diagram**: Show chromatids moving towards opposite poles, with spindle fibers pulling them apart.

**Step 6: Telophase**
- The separated chromosomes reach the poles and begin to de-condense back into chromatin.
- The nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, resulting in two nuclei within the cell.
- **Diagram**: Illustrate two distinct nuclei forming at opposite ends of the cell.

**Step 7: Cytokinesis**
- This is the final step where the cytoplasm divides, resulting in two separate daughter cells.
- In animal cells, this occurs through a cleavage furrow, while in plant cells, a cell plate forms.
- **Diagram**: Show the separation of the cell into two identical daughter cells.

### Summary
At the end of mitotic cell division, two genetically identical daughter cells are formed, each with the same number of chromosomes as the original parent cell.

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