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Multiple Choice
Sister chromatids separate during which phase of mitosis?
A
Prophase
B
Metaphase
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. Sister chromatids are not separated in this phase.
In metaphase, the chromosomes align at the metaphase plate, but the sister chromatids remain attached at the centromere.
During anaphase, the centromeres split, and the sister chromatids are pulled apart by the spindle fibers toward opposite poles of the cell. This is the phase where sister chromatids separate.
In telophase, the separated chromatids reach the poles, and the cell begins to divide, but the separation of sister chromatids has already occurred in the previous phase, anaphase.