Includes three stages, G1, S, and G2 described in lecture. The cell's chromosomes are dispersed as chromatin inside the nucleus. Each chromosome consists of two chromatids. This stage ends with the breakdown of the nuclear envelope. A network of microtubules form called the spindle.
Individual microtubules connect to each chromosome at the centromere.
These rearrange the chromosomes so that they line-up along the cell equator. Chromatids separate and become the chromosomes of daughter nuclei. These are pulled to opposite ends of the cell. Begins when the chromosomes stop moving. During this stage the chromosomes disperse to form chromatin and the nuclear envelope reforms.