DNA Processes: Mitosis Phases

Question 1

What are the 4 phases of mitosis?

Answer 1

Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase

Acronym: PMAT

Question 2

What is prophase?

Answer 2

first stage of mitosis; chromatids condense into chromosomes, nuclear envelope disappears

Question 3

What is metaphase?

Answer 3

second phase of mitosis; chromosomes line up across the center of the cell

Question 4

What is anaphase?

Answer 4

The sister chromatids are pulled apart, and move to the opposite ends of the cell as separate
chromatids. Although this stage lasts about ten minutes, it is the most important because it ensures that
each daughter cell is genetically identical.

Question 5

What is telophase?

Answer 5

The separated chromosomes are now at each end of the cell. Each one uncoils and becomes
longer and thinner. At the end of this phase it is no longer possible to see and count the individual
chromosomes. Two new nuclear membranes form around the genetic material.