Smallest phase of mitosis is –

Options

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

Answer

To determine the smallest phase of mitosis, we will analyze each phase of mitosis step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Mitosis**: Mitosis is a process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells. It consists of several phases: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.

2. **Analyzing Prophase**:
- Prophase is the first stage of mitosis.
- It is characterized by the condensation of chromatin into visible chromosomes, and the nuclear envelope begins to break down.
- This phase is known to be the longest phase of mitosis, not the smallest.

3. **Analyzing Metaphase**:
- Metaphase is the second stage where chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plane (metaphase plate).
- This phase is also relatively long, as it ensures that chromosomes are properly aligned for separation.

4. **Analyzing Anaphase**:
- Anaphase is the third stage of mitosis.
- During this phase, the sister chromatids are pulled apart towards opposite poles of the cell.
- This movement occurs rapidly, making Anaphase the shortest phase of mitosis.

5. **Analyzing Telophase**:
- Telophase is the final stage of mitosis.
- In this phase, the separated chromatids reach the poles, and the nuclear envelope reforms around each set of chromosomes.
- This phase is longer than Anaphase as it involves the reformation of the nucleus.

6. **Conclusion**:
- After analyzing all phases, we conclude that the smallest phase of mitosis is **Anaphase**.

### Final Answer:
The smallest phase of mitosis is **Anaphase**.

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