Episode 28 – Parts 1 & 2 – Mitosis Models

First, you will need to download the Mitosis Models lab manual

Did you know you, as a living being, began as only one cell? Now, you consist of hundreds of thousands of millions of cells! That one cell, known as a zygote had to divide many times to make you who you are today. Every minute, hour, and day, your cells are undergoing cell division. This is the process by which a cell splits into two daughter cells. To do this, we must replicate our DNA and split it evenly amongst the daughter cells. This process is known as mitosis.

Understanding mitosis and cell division as a whole is an essential part of genetics, which can provide us with plenty of information about who we are at a molecular level. When cell division happens too quickly or at a rapid pace, problems can occur. Having knowledge about how cells should divide on a regular basis can help prevent any problems!

Figuring out the time that cells decide to divide is a tricky topic. Currently, scientists are not entirely sure when a cell knows to divide. Evidence suggests factors such as cell size, time of day, light, and other environmental cues can trigger cells to undergo division. What factors do believe would play a role and why?

Saskatchewan Curriculum Connections: RE9.2: Observe and describe the significance of cellular reproductive processes, including mitosis and meiosis (b).