It is difficult to observe individual chromosomes during interphase becausea. the DNA has not been replicated yet.b. they are in the form of long, thin strands.c. they leave the nucleus and are dispersed to other parts of the cell.d. homologous chromosomes do not pair up until division starts.
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Understand that interphase is the phase of the cell cycle when the cell prepares for division and DNA is replicated.
Recall that during interphase, chromosomes are not condensed and are instead in the form of chromatin, which is a less tightly packed structure.
Consider that chromatin is composed of long, thin strands of DNA and proteins, making it difficult to distinguish individual chromosomes under a microscope.
Eliminate options that do not align with the characteristics of interphase, such as DNA replication status or chromosome pairing.
Identify the correct reason based on the understanding that chromosomes are not visible as distinct entities during interphase due to their extended and thin form.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Interphase
Interphase is the phase of the cell cycle where the cell prepares for division. It consists of three stages: G1 (cell growth), S (DNA synthesis), and G2 (preparation for mitosis). During interphase, the DNA is in a relaxed state, making it less visible under a microscope compared to the condensed form seen during mitosis.
Chromatin is the complex of DNA and proteins found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. During interphase, chromatin exists as long, thin strands, which are less compact than the chromosomes seen during cell division. This less condensed state allows for gene expression and DNA replication but makes individual chromosomes difficult to distinguish.
Chromosome visibility refers to the ability to observe distinct chromosomes under a microscope. During interphase, chromosomes are not visible as separate entities due to their extended chromatin form. It is only during mitosis, when chromatin condenses into distinct chromosomes, that they can be easily observed.