Describe what happens during mitosis to produce two daughter cells.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Model answer (4 marks)
1. The chromosomes are duplicated, forming identical sister chromatids.
2. The chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell.
3. The nuclear envelope breaks down and then reforms, creating two nuclei.
4. Two genetically identical daughter cells are produced.
2. The chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell.
3. The nuclear envelope breaks down and then reforms, creating two nuclei.
4. Two genetically identical daughter cells are produced.
Examiner tips
- Use the sequence of stages (prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase) to structure your answer. Mention that the genetic material is duplicated before division. Show that the nuclei are divided and the cells are identical.
- common_mistakes
- :
- Confusing meiosis with mitosis. Omitting the step that the chromosomes are separated to opposite sides. Using vague terms like "cell splits" without specifying nuclear division.
Mark scheme (4 marks)
- Chromosomes are copied / duplicated (before division begins)
- The chromosomes / genetic material are separated (to opposite ends / sides of the cell)
- The nucleus divides (into two nuclei)
- Two genetically identical daughter cells are produced
Key terms in this question
Related
- Revision notes: Cell division →
- How to answer a "Describe" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →