In which stage of cell division chromosomes are most condensed

Options

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

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Stages of Cell Division**: Cell division consists of several stages, namely prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Each stage has distinct characteristics regarding the chromosomes.

2. **Prophase**: In this initial stage, the chromatin begins to condense into visible chromosomes. However, at this point, the chromosomes are not yet at their maximum level of condensation. Thus, prophase is not the correct answer.

3. **Metaphase**: This is the stage where chromosomes are most condensed. During metaphase, the chromosomes align at the metaphase plate (the equatorial plane of the cell), and they are at their shortest and most compact form. This makes metaphase the correct answer to the question.

4. **Anaphase**: In this stage, the sister chromatids separate and move toward opposite poles of the cell. While the chromosomes are still condensed, they are not at their maximum condensation as they were in metaphase. Therefore, anaphase is not the correct answer.

5. **Telophase**: This is the final stage of cell division where the chromosomes begin to de-condense back into chromatin, and the nuclear envelope reforms around the separated sets of chromosomes. Thus, telophase is also not the correct answer.

6. **Conclusion**: After analyzing all the stages, the stage of cell division where chromosomes are most condensed is **metaphase**.

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