An animal cell is dividing. Which of the following would NOT be seen during this process?

• A. Formation of a cell plate during cytokinesis
• B. Separation of sister chromatids during anaphase
• C. Condensation of chromatin into visible chromosomes
• D. Disassembly of the nuclear envelope during prophase

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of the problem: The question is asking about processes that occur during animal cell division, specifically mitosis and cytokinesis. It also asks which process would NOT be seen during this division.
2. Review the key stages of mitosis in animal cells: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase. During these stages, chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes (Prophase), sister chromatids separate (Anaphase), and the nuclear envelope disassembles (Prophase). These processes are typical of animal cell division.
3. Learn about cytokinesis in animal cells: Cytokinesis is the final step of cell division where the cytoplasm splits to form two daughter cells. In animal cells, this occurs through the formation of a cleavage furrow, not a cell plate. The formation of a cell plate is specific to plant cells.
4. Compare the options provided: Formation of a cell plate during cytokinesis is unique to plant cells and does not occur in animal cells. The other processes listed (separation of sister chromatids, condensation of chromatin, and disassembly of the nuclear envelope) are all characteristic of animal cell division.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is the process that is exclusive to plant cells and not seen in animal cells: Formation of a cell plate during cytokinesis.