The cell cycle is a well-organized process that cells follow to divide correctly. It has several important stages:

1. Interphase: This is where a cell spends most of its life. It grows and gets ready to divide. Interphase has three parts:

   • G1 phase: The cell grows and makes proteins it needs.
   • S phase: DNA is copied, so each new cell will have the same genetic information.
   • G2 phase: The cell checks for mistakes and gets ready for the next step.

2. Mitosis: This is when the cell actually divides. Mitosis has four phases:

   • Prophase: The chromosomes get thicker and easier to see.
   • Metaphase: The chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell.
   • Anaphase: The two halves of each chromosome are pulled to opposite sides.
   • Telophase: New membranes form around each set of chromosomes.

3. Cytokinesis: This is the last step where the cell splits into two.

What’s really interesting is that there are checkpoints between these stages. These checkpoints make sure everything is going well before the cell moves on to the next stage.

If there is a problem, like with the DNA, the cell can stop and fix it, or it might even destroy itself if it can’t. This process helps ensure that each new cell is as healthy as the original one!