how do cells divide

Cells divide so that our bodies can grow, make new blood cells, and replace old ones. Inside each cell is a nucleus, which holds the cell’s DNA – the instructions for making us who we are – and the rest of the parts used for different tasks. Before a cell divides, it copies its DNA so each new cell gets an exact copy. Then it grows bigger and bigger until it looks like it’s ready to split apart. Finally, the cell pinches off in the middle, creating two separate cells with a copy of the original DNA!