Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
At what stage of mitosis do sister chromatids become full-fledged chromosomes?
A
Anaphase
B
Metaphase
C
Prophase
D
Telophase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of mitosis: Mitosis is the division of a cell's nucleus into two genetically identical nuclei. It consists of several stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
Review the role of sister chromatids: Sister chromatids are identical copies of a chromosome connected by a centromere. During mitosis, they are separated to ensure each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes.
Analyze the events of anaphase: In anaphase, the centromeres split, and the sister chromatids are pulled apart by spindle fibers toward opposite poles of the cell. Once separated, each chromatid is considered an individual chromosome.
Compare anaphase to other stages: In metaphase, sister chromatids align at the cell's equatorial plate. In prophase, chromosomes condense and spindle fibers form. In telophase, the chromosomes reach the poles and nuclear envelopes begin to reform.
Conclude that sister chromatids become full-fledged chromosomes during anaphase, as this is the stage where they are physically separated and considered individual chromosomes.