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Multiple Choice
During the _____ stage of mitosis, chromosomes condense and mitotic spindle fibers begin to form.
A
metaphase
B
telophase
C
anaphase
D
prophase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the stages of mitosis: Mitosis is divided into several stages—prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase—each with distinct cellular events.
Recall the key events of prophase: During prophase, chromosomes condense and become visible under a microscope. This condensation is crucial for their proper segregation later in mitosis.
Identify the role of the mitotic spindle: In prophase, spindle fibers begin to form from the centrosomes. These fibers are essential for attaching to chromosomes and guiding their movement during mitosis.
Compare the events of prophase with other stages: Metaphase involves chromosomes aligning at the cell's equatorial plane, anaphase involves the separation of sister chromatids, and telophase involves the reformation of the nuclear envelope. None of these stages involve the initial condensation of chromosomes or spindle formation.
Conclude that the correct stage described in the problem is prophase, as it matches the events of chromosome condensation and spindle fiber formation.