Which phase of mitosis follows prophase?

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

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the sequence of mitosis phases: Mitosis is divided into several stages: prophase, prometaphase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Each phase has distinct characteristics and functions.
2. Recall the events of prophase: During prophase, the chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, the nuclear envelope begins to break down, and the spindle fibers start to form.
3. Learn what happens in prometaphase: Prometaphase follows prophase and is characterized by the complete breakdown of the nuclear envelope, allowing spindle fibers to attach to the kinetochores of chromosomes.
4. Compare prometaphase to the other options: Metaphase involves chromosomes aligning at the cell's equatorial plate, anaphase involves the separation of sister chromatids, and telophase involves the reformation of the nuclear envelope. Prometaphase is the correct phase that directly follows prophase.
5. Conclude that prometaphase is the correct answer based on the sequence and characteristics of mitosis phases.