Describe the events that characterize each stage of mitosis.

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1. Identify the stages of mitosis: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
2. In prophase, describe how chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, the mitotic spindle begins to form, and the nuclear envelope starts to break down.
3. In metaphase, explain how chromosomes align at the metaphase plate, and spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes.
4. In anaphase, detail how sister chromatids are pulled apart by the spindle fibers and move toward opposite poles of the cell.
5. In telophase, describe how the chromosomes arrive at the poles, begin to de-condense, the nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, and the spindle fibers disassemble.

Key Concepts

Mitosis Stages

Mitosis is divided into several distinct stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Each stage has specific events that ensure the accurate division of the cell's genetic material. Understanding these stages is crucial for grasping how cells replicate and maintain genetic continuity.

Chromosome Structure

During mitosis, chromosomes condense and become visible under a microscope. Each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids joined at a centromere. This structure is essential for the proper segregation of genetic material, as it ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.

Spindle Apparatus

The spindle apparatus is a structure made of microtubules that forms during mitosis to separate chromosomes. It originates from the centrosomes and plays a critical role in aligning chromosomes during metaphase and pulling them apart during anaphase. Understanding its function is key to comprehending how cells achieve accurate division.