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Multiple Choice
During which phase of mitosis do sister 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 sister chromatids are not yet separated.
In metaphase, the chromosomes align at the metaphase plate, which is the equatorial plane of the cell. The sister chromatids are still attached to each other at the centromere.
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 the separation of sister chromatids occurs.
Finally, in telophase, the separated chromatids reach the opposite poles, and the nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, completing the process of mitosis.