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

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

Answer: (C)

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 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 telophase, the nuclear envelope reforms around the separated chromosomes, and the cell begins to divide.
3. Step 3: Focus on metaphase. During metaphase, chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plate (also called the metaphase plate). This alignment ensures that each daughter cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes.
4. Step 4: Compare metaphase to anaphase. In anaphase, the sister chromatids of each chromosome are pulled apart toward opposite poles of the cell by the spindle fibers. This occurs after the chromosomes have aligned during metaphase.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the phase characterized by chromosomes aligning at the cell's equatorial plate is metaphase, as this is the defining feature of this stage in mitosis.