In this deck, we'll explore how cells divide and specialise. First, we'll look inside the nucleus at chromosomes. Then we'll cover the cell cycle and mitosis, the process your body uses for growth and repair. Finally, we'll investigate the exciting and controversial topic of stem cells and their potential uses in medicine.

Inside the nucleus of your cells is your genetic material. This is made of a chemical called DNA, which is organised into long, coiled structures called chromosomes. In most human body cells, chromosomes are found in pairs.

Before a cell can divide, it needs to make a complete copy of its DNA. This means each chromosome is copied. The original chromosome and its copy stay attached to each other, forming a shape that looks like an 'X'. Each arm of the 'X' is an identical copy, called a chromatid.