Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

3. Energy & Cell Processes

Phases of Mitosis

Anatomy & Physiology

3. Energy & Cell Processes

Phases of Mitosis

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Problem 4

Textbook Question

What major events occur during anaphase of mitosis?

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand that anaphase is the fourth phase of mitosis, the process that separates the duplicated genetic material carried in the nucleus of a parent cell into two identical daughter cells.

Step 2: Recognize that during anaphase, the paired chromosomes (sister chromatids) separate and move towards opposite sides of the cell. This is facilitated by the shortening of the microtubules attached to the chromatids.

Step 3: Note that the centromeres split apart, allowing the sister chromatids to separate. Each chromatid, now called a chromosome, is pulled rapidly toward the centrosome to which its microtubule was attached.

Step 4: Understand that by the end of anaphase, the two ends of the cell have an equal collection of chromosomes.

Step 5: Remember that the movement of the chromosomes during anaphase ensures that each daughter cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Anaphase

Anaphase is a stage in mitosis where sister chromatids are pulled apart and move toward opposite poles of the cell. This separation is crucial for ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes. The process is initiated by the shortening of spindle fibers attached to the kinetochores of the chromatids.

Spindle Apparatus

The spindle apparatus is a structure made of microtubules that orchestrates the movement of chromosomes during mitosis. It forms during prophase and is responsible for aligning chromosomes at the metaphase plate and separating them during anaphase. Proper function of the spindle apparatus is essential for accurate chromosome segregation.

Chromatid Separation

Chromatid separation refers to the process during anaphase where the cohesin proteins holding sister chromatids together are cleaved, allowing them to be pulled apart. This separation is vital for the distribution of genetic material, ensuring that each new cell has the correct number of chromosomes, which is critical for maintaining genetic stability.