Which of the following correctly lists the phases of mitosis in the order they occur?

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

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that mitosis is the process of cell division where a single cell divides to produce two identical daughter cells. It consists of several phases that occur in a specific order.
2. Recall the correct sequence of mitosis phases: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase. Each phase has distinct characteristics and roles in the division process.
3. Prophase: This is the first phase where chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, the nuclear envelope begins to break down, and the mitotic spindle starts to form.
4. Metaphase: In this phase, chromosomes align at the metaphase plate (the cell's equatorial plane), and spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes.
5. Anaphase and Telophase: Anaphase follows Metaphase, where sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell. Telophase is the final phase, where the nuclear envelope re-forms around the separated chromosomes, and the cell prepares to divide through cytokinesis.