Which ONE of the following sequences of events CORRECTLY represents mitosis ?

Options

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

Answer

To determine the correct sequence of events that represent mitosis, we need to understand the four main phases of mitosis: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of these phases:

### Step 1: Prophase
- In this initial phase, the chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, and each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids joined at the centromere.
- The nuclear envelope begins to break down, and the mitotic spindle starts to form from the centrosomes.

**Hint:** Look for the formation of spindle fibers and the condensation of chromosomes.

### Step 2: Metaphase
- During metaphase, 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 is connected to opposite poles of the spindle.

**Hint:** Remember that chromosomes are lined up in the middle of the cell during this phase.

### Step 3: Anaphase
- Anaphase is characterized by the separation of sister chromatids as the spindle fibers shorten, pulling them toward opposite poles of the cell.
- This ensures that each new daughter cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes.

**Hint:** Focus on the movement of chromatids to opposite ends of the cell.

### Step 4: Telophase
- In telophase, the separated chromatids 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.

**Hint:** Look for the reformation of the nuclear envelope and the de-condensation of chromosomes.

### Conclusion
The correct sequence of events that represents mitosis is:
1. Prophase
2. Metaphase
3. Anaphase
4. Telophase

Thus, the answer to the question is the fourth option, which correctly represents the sequence of mitosis.

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