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Multiple Choice
During which phase of mitosis do the centromeres of replicated chromosomes separate?
A
Prophase
B
Telophase
C
Metaphase
D
Anaphase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of mitosis, which is the division of a cell nucleus into two genetically identical nuclei. Mitosis consists of several phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
Recall that during prophase, the chromosomes condense and become visible, and the mitotic spindle begins to form. The nuclear envelope starts to break down.
In metaphase, the chromosomes align at the metaphase plate, which is the equatorial plane of the cell. The spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes.
During anaphase, the centromeres of each chromosome split, allowing the sister chromatids to separate and move toward opposite poles of the cell. This is the key event where the centromeres separate.
Finally, in telophase, the separated chromatids reach the poles, and the nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, completing the division of the nucleus.