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Multiple Choice
Which phase of mitosis begins when spindle fibers pull sister chromatids apart at the centromere?
A
Metaphase
B
Prophase
C
Anaphase
D
Telophase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of mitosis, which is the division of a cell's nucleus into two identical nuclei. Mitosis consists of several phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
Recall that spindle fibers are structures that help separate chromosomes during mitosis. They attach to the centromeres of sister chromatids, which are identical copies of a chromosome.
Review the role of each phase of mitosis: Prophase involves the condensation of chromatin into chromosomes and the formation of spindle fibers. Metaphase is when chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plane. Anaphase is the phase where spindle fibers pull sister chromatids apart at the centromere, separating them into individual chromosomes. Telophase involves the reformation of the nuclear envelope around the separated chromosomes.
Focus on the key event described in the problem: spindle fibers pulling sister chromatids apart at the centromere. This action is characteristic of anaphase, as it marks the separation of chromatids into individual chromosomes that move toward opposite poles of the cell.
Conclude that the correct phase of mitosis described in the problem is anaphase, based on the specific event of chromatids being pulled apart by spindle fibers.