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Multiple Choice
During which phase of mitosis is DNA (sister chromatids) separated and pulled toward opposite poles of the cell?
A
Metaphase
B
Anaphase
C
Prophase
D
Telophase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the phases of mitosis: Mitosis is divided into several phases—prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Each phase has distinct events that contribute to cell division.
Focus on the role of sister chromatids: Sister chromatids are identical copies of DNA that are joined together at the centromere. During mitosis, they must be separated to ensure each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.
Review the events of anaphase: In anaphase, the sister chromatids are separated as the spindle fibers attached to the centromeres shorten, pulling the chromatids toward opposite poles of the cell.
Compare anaphase to other phases: In metaphase, sister chromatids align at the cell's equatorial plane. In prophase, chromosomes condense and spindle fibers begin to form. In telophase, the separated chromatids are enclosed in new nuclear envelopes.
Conclude that the correct phase for the separation and movement of sister chromatids to opposite poles is anaphase, based on the description of mitotic events.