The phase of mitosis in which chromosomes are thickest and shortest is

Options

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

Answer

To determine the phase of mitosis in which chromosomes are the thickest and shortest, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand Mitosis Phases**: Mitosis consists of several phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Each phase has distinct characteristics regarding chromosome appearance.

2. **Identify Chromosome Characteristics**:
- **Prophase**: Chromosomes condense and become visible, but they are not yet at their thickest.
- **Metaphase**: Chromosomes are maximally condensed, aligned at the metaphase plate, and are at their thickest and shortest.
- **Anaphase**: Chromosomes begin to separate and are pulled apart, which means they start to elongate.
- **Telophase**: Chromosomes begin to de-condense, becoming less visible and longer.

3. **Focus on Metaphase**: During metaphase, chromosomes are fully condensed and aligned in the center of the cell. This is the stage where they are most easily observed and studied, as they are at their thickest and shortest.

4. **Conclusion**: Based on the characteristics of each phase, the phase of mitosis in which chromosomes are the thickest and shortest is **Metaphase**.

### Final Answer:
The phase of mitosis in which chromosomes are thickest and shortest is **Metaphase**.

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