16 



GERMINATION 



substances called chromosomes and these are in the skein 

 shown in Figure 3. They are always in multiples of two 

 and during the process of cell-division each of them splits 

 into two parts. 



In parting with its membrane the nucleus also parts with 

 its insulation and the chromosomes are deprived of theirs 

 by splitting. The latter are thus, for the time being, elec- 

 trically neutral or alternatively are similarly electrified 

 bodies and are accordingly marshalled by the lines of force — 

 the repelling influence from each centrosome — into the 

 equatorial plane, or, in other words, into a position equi- 

 distant from the centrosomes (Figure 4). 



After a brief interval the chromosomes regain insulation 

 and in accordance with the law governing electrified bodies 

 (they are now oppositely electrified) are attracted in two 

 equal groups by the centrosomes. (Figure 5). 



f^3 



Directly that occurs new nuclear membranes are formed, 

 the exoplasm gradually contracts in the centre, the lines 

 of force disappear and as shown in Figure 6, two daughter- 

 cells, each with a single centrosome, mark the conclusion 

 of the process. 



