What is the genetic content and chromosome number of a diploid cell during the G1 Phase, S-phase, G2, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase after Cytokinesis.

Answer 1

Let 2n be the diploid number, and C be the genetic content of a diploid cell.

During G1, the cell has 2n chromosomes (actually in the form of chromatin), and C genetic content..

In S phase, the DNA replicates, but the two sister chromatids remain attached and are considered one chromosome, so there are still 2n chromosomes, but 2C genetic content. This remains the same in G2.

In metaphase, the chromosomes are condensed, but still attached, so there are still 2n chromosomes, and 2C genetic content.

In anaphase the sister chromatids separate, so now there are twice as many chromosomes, and the genetic content has not changed. There is one cell with 4n chromosomes, and 2C genetic content.

In telophase there is still actually only one cell because cytokinesis is not yet complete to divide the cell into two. So there is still 4n chromosomes and 2C genetic content.

After cytokinesis, cell division is complete. The chromosomes have been distributed to two nuclei that are in separate cells. So each individual cell has 2n chromosomes and C genetic content as the cells re-enter G1.

Hope that helps.