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Multiple Choice
At which stage of mitosis are the chromosomes aligned at the equator of the cell?
A
Metaphase
B
Prophase
C
Anaphase
D
Telophase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the stages of mitosis: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Each stage has distinct characteristics and roles in cell division.
In prophase, the chromosomes condense and become visible. The nuclear envelope begins to disintegrate, and the mitotic spindle starts to form.
During metaphase, the chromosomes align at the equatorial plane of the cell, known as the metaphase plate. This alignment is crucial for ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.
In anaphase, the sister chromatids are pulled apart by the spindle fibers towards opposite poles of the cell. This separation ensures that each new cell will have the correct number of chromosomes.
Finally, in telophase, the chromosomes reach the poles, de-condense, and are enclosed by a new nuclear envelope. The cell begins to divide into two distinct daughter cells.