Mitosis and the cell cycle — AQA GCSE Biology
Test yourself on Mitosis and the cell cycle with AQA GCSE practice questions.
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Mitosis and the cell cycle explained
The cell cycle is the sequence of growth, DNA replication and division that produces two genetically identical cells.
Read the full explanation
It has three main stages: interphase, during which the cell grows and the genetic material is doubled so each chromosome becomes two identical copies; mitosis, when the copies are separated and the nucleus divides; and cytokinesis, when the cytoplasm and cell membrane divide to form two cells. The two daughter cells are identical to each other and to the parent because each receives one complete copy of every chromosome. For example, a human body cell with 46 chromosomes replicates its DNA, then divides so each new cell has 46 chromosomes.
Your focus
- Describe the order of events in the cell cycle, including when the genetic material doubles.
- Explain why the two daughter cells produced are genetically identical.
- Apply the idea of the cell cycle to a named organism or cell type.
Mitosis and the cell cycle exam tips
Marking Points
- States that the genetic material is doubled during interphase before division occurs.
- Describes DNA replication as producing two identical copies of each chromosome.
- Explains that mitosis separates the copies so each daughter cell receives one full set of chromosomes.
- Concludes that the two daughter cells are genetically identical to each other and to the parent cell.
- Uses the term cell cycle to link growth, DNA replication, mitosis and cytokinesis in the correct order.
Examiner Tips
- 💡Sequence your answer as interphase, mitosis, cytokinesis so the doubling and dividing are clearly linked.
- 💡Use the phrase genetically identical and refer to chromosome number to show precise understanding.
- 💡If asked to compare, mention that meiosis halves the chromosome number while this division keeps it the same.
Common Mistakes
- Thinking the cell divides first and then doubles its DNA; correct this by placing DNA replication in interphase before mitosis.
- Saying the daughter cells are similar rather than genetically identical; correct this by stating they have the same chromosome number and identical DNA.
- Confusing the cell cycle with meiosis; correct this by noting that meiosis produces gametes with half the chromosome number, whereas the cell cycle described here produces identical body cells.