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Multiple Choice
Which phase of mitosis is the last phase in which sister chromatids remain together before they are separated?
A
Telophase
B
Anaphase
C
Prophase
D
Metaphase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of mitosis: Mitosis is the division of a eukaryotic cell's nucleus into two genetically identical nuclei. It consists of several phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
Review the role of sister chromatids: Sister chromatids are identical copies of a chromosome that are joined together at a region called the centromere. They remain attached until they are separated during mitosis.
Analyze metaphase: During metaphase, the chromosomes align at the metaphase plate (the cell's equatorial plane). The sister chromatids are still attached to each other at this stage, and the spindle fibers from opposite poles attach to the centromeres.
Examine anaphase: In anaphase, the sister chromatids are pulled apart as the spindle fibers shorten, separating them into individual chromosomes that move toward opposite poles of the cell.
Conclude that metaphase is the last phase in which sister chromatids remain together before they are separated in anaphase. This is because the separation occurs only after the metaphase alignment is complete.