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Multiple Choice
Which phase of mitosis is characterized by the alignment of chromosomes along the metaphase plate?
A
Anaphase
B
Prophase
C
Telophase
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 under a microscope. The nuclear envelope begins to break down, and the mitotic spindle starts to form.
Next, during metaphase, the chromosomes align along the metaphase plate, which is an imaginary line equidistant from the two spindle poles. This alignment ensures that each daughter cell will receive one copy of each chromosome.
Following metaphase is anaphase, where the sister chromatids are pulled apart by the spindle fibers towards opposite poles of the cell.
Finally, in telophase, the chromosomes reach the poles, the nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, and the cell begins to divide through cytokinesis.