Eukaryotic chromosomes have multiple points of origin and multiple termini. Proteins are used to separate the two strands of the DNA molecule when replication begins. Nucleotide monophosphates are the precursors for the synthesis of the new DNA strands. A replicating fork is where the synthesis of new DNA strands takes place. Semiconservative DNA synthesis only takes place in germ cells which produce sex gametes.
Prokaryotic cells divide by binary fission.
Before dividing, eukaryotic chromosomes condense into tightly packed structures using a series of special proteins called histones. Protein microtubules attach to the very ends of chromosomes to pull them apart during cell division.