Which one of the following is the correct sequence of phases in mitosis?

Options

A. Anaphase-metaphase-prophase-telophase
B. Telophase-metaphase-anaphase-prophase
C. Metaphase-telophase-prophase-anaphase
D. Prophase-metaphase-anaphase-telophase

Answer

To determine the correct sequence of phases in mitosis, we need to understand the stages involved in this process. Mitosis is a type of cell division that results in two daughter cells with the same genetic material as the parent cell. It consists of several distinct phases:

1. **Prophase**: This is the first stage of mitosis. During prophase, the chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, and each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids. The nuclear envelope begins to break down, and the mitotic spindle starts to form.

2. **Metaphase**: In this stage, the chromosomes align at the metaphase plate (the equatorial plane of the cell). The spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes, ensuring that each sister chromatid will be pulled to opposite poles of the cell.

3. **Anaphase**: During anaphase, the sister chromatids are pulled apart and move toward opposite poles of the cell. This separation ensures that each daughter cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes.

4. **Telophase**: This is the final stage of mitosis. In telophase, the chromosomes reach the opposite poles and begin to de-condense back into chromatin. The nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, resulting in two distinct nuclei within the cell.

Now, putting these phases in order, we have:

- **Prophase**
- **Metaphase**
- **Anaphase**
- **Telophase**

Thus, the correct sequence of phases in mitosis is **D. Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase**.