Which stage of mitosis is characterized by chromosomes aligning at the cell's equatorial plate?

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

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the process of mitosis, which is the division of a cell's nucleus into two genetically identical nuclei. Mitosis consists of several stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
2. Step 2: Recall the key characteristics of each stage of mitosis. For example, in prophase, chromosomes condense and become visible, and the nuclear envelope begins to break down. In metaphase, chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plate. In anaphase, sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell. In telophase, the nuclear envelope reforms around the separated chromatids.
3. Step 3: Focus on the description provided in the problem: 'chromosomes aligning at the cell's equatorial plate.' This is a hallmark feature of metaphase, where the chromosomes are positioned along the metaphase plate (the equatorial plane of the cell).
4. Step 4: Compare the description of metaphase with the other stages listed in the problem (prophase, anaphase, and telophase). None of these stages involve chromosomes aligning at the equatorial plate, confirming that metaphase is the correct stage.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the stage of mitosis characterized by chromosomes aligning at the cell's equatorial plate is metaphase, based on the biological process and the description provided.