Which of the following is not a phase of mitosis?
a. Interphase
b. Prophase
c. Anaphase
d. Metaphase

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the process of mitosis. Mitosis is the division of a cell's nucleus into two identical nuclei, and it consists of specific phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
2. Step 2: Recognize that interphase is not part of mitosis. Interphase is the phase where the cell prepares for division by growing and replicating its DNA, but it occurs before mitosis begins.
3. Step 3: Review the phases of mitosis: Prophase involves the condensation of chromatin into chromosomes and the breakdown of the nuclear envelope. Metaphase is when chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plane. Anaphase is the separation of sister chromatids toward opposite poles.
4. Step 4: Compare the options provided in the question. Identify which phase does not belong to the process of mitosis based on the explanation above.
5. Step 5: Conclude that interphase is not a phase of mitosis, as it occurs prior to mitosis and is part of the cell cycle rather than the mitotic process itself.

Key Concepts

Mitosis

Mitosis is a process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell. It consists of several distinct phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Each phase plays a critical role in ensuring that the chromosomes are accurately replicated and distributed to the daughter cells.

Interphase

Interphase is the phase of the cell cycle that occurs before mitosis and is not considered a part of mitosis itself. It is divided into three sub-phases: G1 (cell growth), S (DNA synthesis), and G2 (preparation for mitosis). During interphase, the cell prepares for division by replicating its DNA and increasing its organelle count.

Phases of Mitosis

The phases of mitosis include prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Each phase has specific events: prophase involves chromatin condensing into chromosomes, metaphase aligns chromosomes at the cell's equator, anaphase separates sister chromatids, and telophase reforms the nuclear envelope around the separated sets of chromosomes. Understanding these phases is essential for recognizing the complete process of cell division.