Question

During which phase of mitosis do the centromeres split and chromatids move to opposite poles?

• A. Prophase
• B. Metaphase
• C. Anaphase
• D. Telophase

Hint:

*Remember:* "Anaphase = Apart." It’s when the chromatids move apart to opposite poles.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Anaphase is the stage of mitosis where the centromeres, which hold the sister chromatids together, split. As a result, the sister chromatids are pulled apart by the spindle fibers toward opposite poles of the cell. This ensures that each daughter cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes. To better understand mitosis:
Prophase: Chromosomes condense and become visible. The nuclear envelope breaks down, and spindle fibers form.
Metaphase: Chromosomes align at the metaphase plate (the center of the cell).
Anaphase: Centromeres split, and chromatids are pulled toward opposite poles.
Telophase: The chromatids arrive at the poles, the nuclear membrane reforms, and the cell begins to divide.
Anaphase is crucial because it ensures that genetic information is evenly distributed to the two daughter cells.