During mitosis, the phase in which chromosomes align at the center (equatorial plane) of the cell is called _____.

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

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the process of mitosis, which is the division of a cell's nucleus into two identical nuclei. Mitosis consists of several phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
2. Step 2: Recall the key events of each phase. In prophase, chromosomes condense and become visible, and the nuclear envelope begins to break down. In metaphase, chromosomes align at the equatorial plane (center) of the cell. In anaphase, sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell. In telophase, the nuclear envelope reforms around the separated chromatids, and the cell begins to divide.
3. Step 3: Focus on the question, which asks for the phase where chromosomes align at the center of the cell. This alignment is a defining characteristic of metaphase.
4. Step 4: Eliminate the incorrect options based on their descriptions. Prophase involves chromosome condensation, not alignment. Telophase involves nuclear envelope reformation, not alignment. Anaphase involves chromatid separation, not alignment.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is metaphase, as it is the phase where chromosomes align at the equatorial plane of the cell during mitosis.