Describe what happens to the chromosomes during mitosis so that two identical daughter cells are produced.

Eduqas GCSE Biology — 2.2.1 Mitosis and meiosis · Describe · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

The chromosomes are duplicated before mitosis begins.
The duplicated chromosomes line up along the middle (equator) of the cell.
The sister chromatids are pulled to opposite poles of the cell.
Each daughter cell receives the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell and is genetically identical.

Examiner tips

Use the exact terms "duplicated", "equator", "poles", "genetically identical".
Show the sequence: duplication → alignment → separation → identical daughters.
Keep the answer concise – one sentence per point.

Common mistakes

Forgetting to mention duplication before mitosis.
Using vague terms like "split" instead of "pulled to poles".
Claiming the daughter cells are different instead of identical.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

The chromosomes are copied / duplicated before mitosis begins
The chromosomes line up along the middle / equator of the cell
Copies of chromosomes are pulled to opposite ends / poles of the cell
Each daughter cell receives the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell / each daughter cell is genetically identical to the parent cell

Key terms in this question

mitosis · chromosomes · daughter cells · identical