Cell division occurs through a process called mitosis, which produces two genetically identical daughter cells. Mitosis is divided into five stages - prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase, and cytokinesis. During interphase, the cell grows and duplicates its DNA in preparation for division. In prophase, the nuclear envelope breaks down and spindle fibers form. In metaphase, chromosomes line up in the cell's equator. In anaphase, sister chromatids are separated and moved to opposite poles. Telophase involves the formation of two daughter cell nuclei. Cytokinesis then divides the cytoplasm, completing cell division. Mitosis is essential for growth, healing, and replacing dead or damaged cells.