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BiologyGCSEAQA & EdexcelYears 9–11

GCSE Biology Cell Division & Stem Cells Notes

The cell cycle produces two identical daughter cells by mitosis. Stem cells can become any type of cell and hold huge medical promise.

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Key concepts

Cell cycle
Growth and DNA replication → mitosis → cytokinesis. Produces two genetically identical diploid cells.
Mitosis
Nuclear division that gives two identical daughter cells. Used for growth, repair and asexual reproduction.
Stem cell
An undifferentiated cell that can divide to make more stem cells or specialise into different cell types.
  • Embryonic stem cells can become any type of cell; adult stem cells (e.g. bone marrow) are more limited.
  • Plants have meristem tissue that keeps stem cell activity throughout the plant's life.
  • Therapeutic cloning could treat conditions such as diabetes or paralysis but raises ethical concerns.

Worked example

Describe the sequence of events in one cell cycle.

  1. 1The cell grows and increases the number of sub-cellular structures (ribosomes, mitochondria).
  2. 2DNA replicates so each chromosome forms two identical strands.
  3. 3Mitosis: chromosomes line up and are pulled to opposite ends by spindle fibres; two nuclei form.
  4. 4Cytoplasm and membrane divide to form two identical daughter cells.

Answer: Growth and replication → mitosis → cytokinesis, giving two identical cells.

Common mistakes

✗ Saying mitosis produces four gametes.

✓ Mitosis makes two identical body cells; meiosis makes four different gametes.

✗ Claiming all stem cells can become any cell type.

✓ Only embryonic stem cells are pluripotent; adult stem cells are more restricted.

✗ Forgetting that DNA replicates before mitosis.

✓ DNA is copied first so each daughter cell gets a full set.

Quick check

Try these, then reveal the answers.

How many daughter cells does mitosis produce?Reveal answer

Two, genetically identical to the parent.

Where are stem cells found in plants?Reveal answer

In meristem tissue (tips of roots and shoots).

Why is DNA replicated before mitosis?Reveal answer

So each new cell receives a full copy of the genetic information.

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Exam tips

  • Use the sequence 'grow → replicate DNA → mitosis → cytokinesis' for full marks.
  • In stem cell questions, discuss both benefits and ethical/medical risks.
  • Distinguish mitosis (identical, diploid, body cells) from meiosis (variation, haploid, gametes).

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Related topics

Cell BiologyInheritance, Variation & Evolution

Key terms explained

Short, exam-ready definitions with a formula, a worked example and an examiner tip.

What is mitosis?Full glossary

Frequently asked questions

What is mitosis used for?+

Growth, repair of damaged tissue and asexual reproduction — anywhere identical body cells are needed.

Why are stem cells useful in medicine?+

They can be grown into specialised cells to replace damaged ones, treating conditions such as diabetes, paralysis and blindness.

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