The nuclear membrane disappears in

Options

A. Late prophase
B. Early prophase
C. Metaphase
D. Telophase

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Nuclear Membrane**: The nuclear membrane, also known as the nuclear envelope, is a double membrane that surrounds the nucleus in eukaryotic cells. It serves to protect the genetic material (chromosomes) within the nucleus.

2. **Identifying the Stages of Cell Division**: The process of cell division includes several stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Each of these stages has specific events that occur.

3. **Analyzing Late Prophase**: During late prophase, the chromosomes become fully condensed and are visible under a microscope. At this stage, the nuclear membrane begins to break down, allowing the spindle fibers to interact with the chromosomes.

4. **Evaluating Early Prophase**: In early prophase, the chromosomes start to condense, but the nuclear membrane is still intact. Therefore, the nuclear membrane does not disappear in this stage.

5. **Considering Metaphase**: In metaphase, the chromosomes are aligned at the metaphase plate, and the nuclear membrane has already disappeared. Thus, this stage does not involve the disappearance of the nuclear membrane.

6. **Examining Telophase**: During telophase, the chromosomes have been separated and are moving to opposite poles of the cell. At this stage, the nuclear membrane begins to re-form around each set of chromosomes, indicating that it does not disappear in telophase.

7. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the nuclear membrane disappears during late prophase. Therefore, the correct answer is option 1: late prophase.

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