- Cells divide through the process of cell reproduction in order to replace old or damaged cells, share genetic material between daughter cells, and allow for growth and specialization. - The key stages of the cell cycle are interphase (which includes G1, S, and G2 phases for growth and DNA replication) and mitosis (which includes prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase for nuclear and cellular division). - Mitosis ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical copy of the parent cell's DNA through the duplication and separation of chromosomes.