Mitosis

Mitosis is a word for how cells make copies of themselves. A cell is the tiny building block of all living things. When a cell goes through mitosis, it splits into two new cells. The new cells look exactly like the first one.

Why Cells Divide

Your body needs new cells all the time. Mitosis helps you grow bigger and taller. It also helps heal cuts and scrapes. Old cells die, and new ones take their place. A baby starts as just one cell and grows into trillions of cells.

The Steps of Mitosis

Mitosis has several steps. First, the cell copies all its parts, including its DNA. Then the copies line up in the middle. Next, they get pulled to each side. Finally, the cell pinches in the middle and splits into two.

Fun Facts

• Your body makes millions of new cells every second.
• Skin cells divide often because skin wears out.
• Plants also use mitosis to grow new leaves and roots.

Did You Know?

Some cells in your brain almost never divide, but skin cells divide all the time.