The phase of mitosis during which centrioles reach the poles and chromosomes attach to the spindle is
a. Anaphase
b. Metaphase
c. Prophase
d. Telophase

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the main phases of mitosis: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, each with distinct events.
2. Understand that centrioles moving to the poles and the formation of the spindle apparatus occur early in mitosis.
3. Recognize that chromosomes attach to the spindle fibers at their centromeres during a specific phase to prepare for alignment.
4. Identify that in prophase, centrioles migrate to opposite poles and spindle fibers begin to form, but chromosomes are not yet fully attached.
5. Conclude that the phase where centrioles have reached the poles and chromosomes are attached to the spindle is metaphase.

Key Concepts

Phases of Mitosis

Mitosis is a process of cell division consisting of distinct phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Each phase has specific events that prepare the cell to divide its chromosomes equally into two daughter cells.

Role of Centrioles and Spindle Fibers

Centrioles help organize the spindle fibers, which are crucial for chromosome movement. During mitosis, centrioles migrate to opposite poles of the cell, forming the spindle apparatus that attaches to chromosomes to guide their separation.

Chromosome Alignment and Attachment

Chromosomes attach to spindle fibers at their centromeres during metaphase, aligning at the cell's equatorial plane. This alignment ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes during subsequent phases.