Which of the following phases of mitosis is essentially the opposite of prophase in terms of changes within the nucleus?
a. Telophase
b. Metaphase
c. Interphase
d. Anaphase

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key events of prophase: During prophase, the nuclear envelope breaks down, chromosomes condense and become visible, and the spindle fibers begin to form.
2. Compare the events of prophase to the phases listed in the options. Look for the phase where the nuclear envelope reforms, chromosomes decondense, and spindle fibers disassemble, as these are opposite changes to prophase.
3. Recall the characteristics of telophase: In telophase, the nuclear envelope reforms around the separated chromosomes, the chromosomes decondense back into chromatin, and the spindle fibers disassemble.
4. Eliminate the other options: Metaphase involves the alignment of chromosomes at the metaphase plate, interphase is the phase between cell divisions where the cell grows and DNA replicates, and anaphase involves the separation of sister chromatids.
5. Conclude that telophase is the phase of mitosis that is essentially the opposite of prophase in terms of changes within the nucleus.

Key Concepts

Mitosis

Mitosis is the process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell. It consists of several phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Each phase is characterized by specific events that lead to the segregation of chromosomes and the eventual division of the cell's nucleus.

Prophase

Prophase is the first stage of mitosis, where chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, and the nuclear envelope begins to break down. The mitotic spindle forms, and the centrioles move to opposite poles of the cell. This phase sets the stage for the alignment and separation of chromosomes in the subsequent phases.

Telophase

Telophase is the final stage of mitosis, essentially reversing the changes that occurred during prophase. During telophase, the chromosomes de-condense back into chromatin, the nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, and the spindle apparatus disassembles. This phase is crucial for restoring the nucleus in each daughter cell before cytokinesis occurs.