Mitotic anaphase differs from metaphase in possessing

Options

A. same number of chromosomes and same number of chromatids
B. half number of chromosomes and half number of chromatids
C. half number of chromosomes and same number of chromatids
D. same number of chromosomes and half number of chromatids

Explanation

To answer the question "Mitotic anaphase differs from metaphase in possessing," we need to analyze the characteristics of both phases of mitosis.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Metaphase**:
- During metaphase, chromosomes align at the metaphase plate (equatorial plane) of the cell.
- Each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids that are joined together at a region called the centromere.
- At this stage, the number of chromosomes is equal to the number of chromatids since each chromosome has two chromatids.

2. **Understanding Anaphase**:
- Anaphase follows metaphase and is characterized by the separation of sister chromatids.
- The spindle fibers pull the sister chromatids apart towards opposite poles of the cell.
- At the end of anaphase, the number of chromosomes doubles (as each chromatid is now considered an individual chromosome), while the number of chromatids is halved.

3. **Comparing the Two Phases**:
- In metaphase, the number of chromosomes is the same as the number of chromatids (2 chromatids per chromosome).
- In anaphase, the number of chromosomes remains the same (as there are still the same number of original chromosomes), but the number of chromatids is halved because they have separated.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, mitotic anaphase differs from metaphase in possessing the same number of chromosomes but half the number of chromatids.

### Final Answer:
The correct option is: **the same number of chromosomes and half number of chromatids**.

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