What is the Difference Between Telophase and Cytokinesis?

Telophase and cytokinesis are two distinct processes that occur during the cell cycle. Here are the main differences between them:

• Occurrence: Telophase is the last phase of mitosis, which is a process that concerns the division of the nucleus only. Cytokinesis, on the other hand, is the actual process of cell division, where the cell either stretches apart until it becomes two separate cells (animal cells) or a cell plate is formed in between with the help of microtubules and vesicles (plant cells).
• Meaning: Telophase is the division of cells into two daughter nuclei, while cytokinesis is the division of cells into two complete daughter cells.
• Chromosomes: During telophase, the chromosomes finish moving to opposite ends, and the nucleus forms around the chromosomes. In cytokinesis, the cell membrane pinches inward, eventually producing two complete daughter cells.
• Cell Organelles and Cytoplasm: In telophase, only the genetic material is divided. In cytokinesis, cell organelles, cytoplasm, and the two nuclei are equally divided.
• Timing: Cytokinesis occurs right after telophase. In many cells, the two processes happen at the same time, so they are often presented together.

In summary, telophase is the last phase of mitosis, where the nucleus and chromosomes divide, while cytokinesis is the actual process of cell division, where the cell cytoplasm and organelles divide to form two complete daughter cells.

Comparative Table: Telophase vs Cytokinesis

Here is a table comparing the differences between telophase and cytokinesis:

Telophase is the final stage of nuclear division in the cell cycle, where the genetic material is pulled apart at the poles, resulting in the formation of two separate nuclei within the cell. Cytokinesis, on the other hand, is the process of dividing the cytoplasm and the cell's organelles into two daughter cells. This stage follows telophase in the cell cycle.