Which sequence correctly lists the four main stages of mitosis (excluding cytokinesis)?

• A. Interphase, prophase, metaphase, anaphase
• B. Prophase, anaphase, metaphase, telophase
• C. Metaphase, prophase, telophase, anaphase
• D. Prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that mitosis is the process of nuclear division in eukaryotic cells, and it consists of four main stages that occur in a specific order.
2. Recall the correct sequence of the four main stages of mitosis: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
3. Recognize that interphase is not a stage of mitosis but rather the phase before mitosis where the cell prepares for division.
4. Identify that the order is important because each stage represents a distinct event: prophase involves chromosome condensation, metaphase aligns chromosomes at the cell equator, anaphase separates sister chromatids, and telophase reforms the nuclear envelope.
5. Confirm that the correct sequence is 'Prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase' and that this matches the correct answer choice.