The phase of mitosis during which the chromosomes move toward separate poles of the cell is __________.

• A. telophase
• B. metaphase
• C. prophase
• D. prometaphase
• E. anaphase

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the stages of mitosis: Mitosis is divided into several phases: prophase, prometaphase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
2. Identify the key events in each phase: In prophase, chromosomes condense and become visible. In prometaphase, the nuclear envelope breaks down. In metaphase, chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plate. In anaphase, sister chromatids separate and move toward opposite poles. In telophase, the nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes.
3. Focus on anaphase: During anaphase, the sister chromatids are pulled apart by the spindle fibers and move toward opposite poles of the cell. This is the key event that distinguishes anaphase from other phases.
4. Compare with other options: Telophase involves the reformation of the nuclear envelope, metaphase involves alignment of chromosomes, prophase involves chromosome condensation, and prometaphase involves the breakdown of the nuclear envelope.
5. Conclude that the phase where chromosomes move toward separate poles is anaphase, based on the key event of chromatid separation and movement.