During which phase of mitosis do sister chromatids separate and move toward opposite poles of the cell?

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

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the main phases of mitosis: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase, each with distinct events.
2. Understand that during Prophase, chromosomes condense and the mitotic spindle begins to form, but sister chromatids are still together.
3. In Metaphase, sister chromatids align at the metaphase plate (the cell's equator), preparing for separation.
4. During Anaphase, the key event is the separation of sister chromatids, which are pulled apart by spindle fibers toward opposite poles of the cell.
5. Finally, in Telophase, the chromatids arrive at the poles and begin to decondense, and the nuclear envelope reforms.