Science
How does cell division work?
Cell division is how one cell becomes two. The cell first copies its DNA, then carefully splits that genetic material and its contents into two identical daughter cells. It's how living things grow, heal wounds, and replace old cells.
See it in motion.
Watch a 2-minute animated lesson that shows exactly how cell division works.
Step by step
- 1A cell first duplicates its DNA.
- 2The copies are separated to opposite ends.
- 3The cell then splits into two identical cells.
- 4It powers growth, healing, and cell replacement.
Frequently asked questions
- How does cell division work?
- A cell copies its DNA, separates the copies, and splits into two identical daughter cells.
- What is mitosis?
- The type of cell division that makes two genetically identical cells for growth and repair.
- Why do cells divide?
- To grow, repair damage, and replace cells that wear out or die.