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Mitosis is a fundamental process of cell division that occurs in eukaryotic cells. It is responsible for the growth, development, and maintenance of multicellular organisms. During mitosis, a single cell divides into two identical daughter cells, each containing the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

The process of mitosis can be divided into several distinct stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Let's explore each stage in detail:

1. Prophase: In this initial stage, the chromatin (loosely packed DNA) condenses and becomes visible as distinct chromosomes. The nuclear membrane starts to disintegrate, and the centrosomes move to opposite poles of the cell, forming spindle fibers.

2. Metaphase: During metaphase, the chromosomes align along the equatorial plane of the cell, known as the metaphase plate. The spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of each chromosome, ensuring proper alignment.

3. Anaphase: In anaphase, the spindle fibers contract, separating the sister chromatids of each chromosome. The chromatids are pulled towards opposite poles of the cell. This ensures that each daughter cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes.

4. Telophase: Telophase marks the final stage of mitosis. The chromosomes reach their respective poles, and a new nuclear membrane forms around each set of chromosomes. The chromosomes begin to decondense, returning to their chromatin form. The cell starts to divide, a process known as cytokinesis.

Cytokinesis is the division of the cytoplasm, which completes the process of cell division. In animal cells, a cleavage furrow forms, pinching the cell membrane inward until the cell is divided into two daughter cells. In plant cells, a cell plate forms in the middle, gradually developing into a new cell wall that separates the daughter cells.

The result of mitosis is the formation of two genetically identical daughter cells, each with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell. These cells can then continue to grow, differentiate, and perform their specific functions in the organism.

Mitosis plays a crucial role in various biological processes, including tissue growth, repair, and asexual reproduction in some organisms. It ensures the proper distribution of genetic material and maintains the stability and integrity of the organism's cells.