How do cytokinesis and telophase differ?

1 Answer

Cytokinesis is the process in which the cell membrane pinches inward, eventually producing two complete daughter cells. It starts in telophase.

Explanation:

Telophase is the last phase of mitosis, which is a process that concerns the division of the nucleus only, in which the chromosomes return to chromatin and a new nuclear membrane and nucleolus forms.

During telophase the chromatid form of chromosomes loosens into thin threads called chromatin, new nuclear membranes form around the two separated groups of chromosomes, and the spindle fibers disappear.

Cytokinesis is the actual process of cell division, where the cell either stretches apart until it becomes two separate cells (animal cells) or it builds new cell membranes at its center (a cell plate) to become two cells (plant cells).

Cytokinesis happens at the same time as telophase in many cells, so they are often presented together..