During which phase of mitosis do chromosomes align at the center of the cell (the metaphase plate)?

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

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the stages of mitosis: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase, each with distinct chromosome behaviors.
2. Recall that during Prophase, chromosomes condense and the mitotic spindle begins to form, but chromosomes have not yet aligned.
3. Recognize that Metaphase is characterized by chromosomes aligning at the cell's equatorial plane, known as the metaphase plate.
4. Note that during Anaphase, sister chromatids separate and move toward opposite poles of the cell.
5. Remember that Telophase involves the reformation of the nuclear envelope around separated chromatids, now called chromosomes, at each pole.