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Multiple Choice
During which phase of mitosis do individual chromatids separate?
A
Metaphase
B
Prophase
C
Telophase
D
Anaphase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand 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.
Recall that during prophase, the chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, and the mitotic spindle begins to form. The nuclear envelope breaks down, but chromatids do not separate in this phase.
In metaphase, the chromosomes align at the metaphase plate, which is the equatorial plane of the cell. The spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes, but separation of chromatids does not occur yet.
During anaphase, the centromeres split, and the spindle fibers pull the sister chromatids apart toward opposite poles of the cell. This is the phase where individual chromatids separate.
In telophase, the separated chromatids reach the opposite poles, and the nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, which de-condense back into chromatin. This phase does not involve the separation of chromatids.