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Multiple Choice
In what phase of mitosis do chromosomes split into sister chromatids?
A
Anaphase
B
Prophase
C
Metaphase
D
Telophase
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 chromosomes condense and become visible, but they do not split at this stage.
In metaphase, the chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plane, but they remain intact as whole chromosomes.
During anaphase, the centromeres split, and the sister chromatids are pulled apart toward opposite poles of the cell. This is the phase where the chromosomes split into sister chromatids.
Finally, in telophase, the separated chromatids reach the poles, and the cell begins to divide, forming two new nuclei. The splitting of chromatids has already occurred in the previous phase, anaphase.