The chromosomes line up in the center of the cell during which phase of mitosis?

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

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process of mitosis, which is the division of a single cell into two genetically identical daughter cells, and consists of several phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
2. Recall that during prophase, the chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, and the mitotic spindle begins to form, but the chromosomes are not yet aligned in the center.
3. Recognize that metaphase is the phase where chromosomes line up at the metaphase plate, which is an imaginary line equidistant from the two spindle poles, preparing for separation.
4. In anaphase, the sister chromatids are pulled apart toward opposite poles of the cell, indicating that the chromosomes are no longer aligned in the center.
5. During telophase, the chromosomes arrive at the poles, and the nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, marking the end of mitosis, with the chromosomes no longer in the center.