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Multiple Choice
In which phase of mitosis do the chromosomes line up and become attached to spindle fibers?
A
Anaphase
B
Telophase
C
Prophase
D
Metaphase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the process of mitosis, which is the division of a single cell into two genetically identical daughter cells. Mitosis consists of several phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
In prophase, the chromosomes condense and become visible. The nuclear envelope breaks down, and the spindle fibers begin to form.
Next, during metaphase, the chromosomes line up along the metaphase plate, which is the equatorial plane of the cell. This alignment is crucial for the equal distribution of chromosomes to each daughter cell.
The spindle fibers, which are structures made of microtubules, attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes during metaphase. This attachment ensures that the chromosomes are correctly aligned and ready to be separated.
Finally, in anaphase, the sister chromatids are pulled apart by the spindle fibers toward opposite poles of the cell, ensuring that each new cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes.