Interphase is the longest phase or part of the cell cycle and takes most of the time to complete. It contains three phases: G1, S, and G2.
During the G1 phase the cell focuses mainly on cell growth and its daily metabolic roles. The S phase is rather important because this is when DNA synthesis occurs. The G2 phase involves growth and then makes preparations to launch itself into mitosis.
Mitosis involves Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.
Prophase is the first phase in mitosis. This is when the chromosomes condense and become visible, the nuclear membrane breaks down and the spindle apparatus forms at opposite poles of the cell.
Metaphase is the second phase in mitosis, and how I remember this phase apart from the others is "meta=middle". The chromosomes align themselves along the metaphase plate. Right through the middle of the cell, all aligned.
Anaphase is the 3rd phase in Mitosis, when the chromosomes split and the sister chromatids move to opposite poles of the cell.
Telophase is the final stage of mitosis, this is when the nuclear envelope forms and the daughter cells split into new cells.
Cytokinesis is the final stage in the Cell Cycle. This is the division of the cytoplasm of the cell, following mitosis.
