During mitosis, which is the process of cells dividing for growth and repair, there are several important stages:

1. Prophase: The chromatin (the stuff in the nucleus) gets thicker and turns into visible chromosomes. The nuclear envelope, which is the covering around the nucleus, starts to break down.

2. Metaphase: The chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell and attach to spindle fibers, which help pull them apart.

3. Anaphase: The sister chromatids (the two parts of a chromosome) are pulled apart to opposite sides of the cell.

4. Telophase: New nuclear envelopes form around the separated chromosomes. The chromosomes then start to loosen again.

Now, let’s talk about meiosis. Meiosis is all about creating gametes, like sperm and eggs, and it happens in two rounds:

1. Meiosis I: This is where homologous chromosomes (the pairs) separate.

   • Prophase I: Here, crossing over happens, which means parts of the chromosomes mix. This helps increase genetic diversity.
   • Metaphase I: The homologous pairs line up together.
   • Anaphase I: The chromosomes are pulled apart.
   • Telophase I: The cell divides into two cells.

2. Meiosis II: This part is similar to mitosis but it works with haploid cells (cells with half the number of chromosomes):

   • Prophase II: The chromosomes thicken again.
   • Metaphase II: The chromosomes line up one by one in the middle.
   • Anaphase II: The sister chromatids separate from each other.
   • Telophase II: This results in four unique haploid cells.

It’s really interesting how these processes help create genetic variety and keep life going!