VISUAL SKILLS The light micrograph shows dividing cells near the tip of an onion root. Identify a cell in each of the following stages: prophase, prometaphase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Describe the major events occurring at each stage.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify a cell in prophase: Look for a cell where the chromatin is condensing into visible chromosomes, and the nucleolus is disappearing.
2. Identify a cell in prometaphase: Find a cell where the nuclear envelope has broken down, and spindle fibers are attaching to the kinetochores of chromosomes.
3. Identify a cell in metaphase: Look for a cell where the chromosomes are aligned at the metaphase plate, equidistant from the two spindle poles.
4. Identify a cell in anaphase: Find a cell where the sister chromatids are being pulled apart toward opposite poles of the cell.
5. Identify a cell in telophase: Look for a cell where the chromosomes have reached the poles, and the nuclear envelope is reforming around each set of chromosomes, with the cell beginning to divide.

Key Concepts

Cell Cycle Stages

The cell cycle consists of several stages that a cell goes through to divide and replicate. These stages include interphase (where the cell prepares for division) and the mitotic phase, which is further divided into prophase, prometaphase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Understanding these stages is crucial for identifying the specific characteristics and events that occur during cell division.

Mitosis

Mitosis is the process of nuclear division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells. It is divided into five stages: prophase (chromosomes condense), prometaphase (nuclear envelope breaks down), metaphase (chromosomes align at the equatorial plane), anaphase (sister chromatids separate), and telophase (nuclear membranes reform). Each stage has distinct events that are essential for proper cell division.

Chromosome Behavior

During mitosis, chromosomes undergo specific behaviors that are critical for accurate segregation. In prophase, chromosomes become visible as they condense. In metaphase, they align at the cell's equator, and during anaphase, the sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles. Understanding these behaviors helps in identifying the stages of mitosis in the light micrograph of dividing cells.