Q.5 The CORRECT sequence of phases during mitosis is
(A) prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase
(B) prophase, anaphase, metaphase, telophase
(C) anaphase, prophase, metaphase, telophase
(D) anaphase, metaphase, prophase, telophase

The correct sequence of phases during mitosis is prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase. This order ensures orderly chromosome condensation, alignment, separation, and decondensation for identical daughter cells.​

Option Analysis

Option (A) lists prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase, matching the standard sequence where prophase initiates condensation, metaphase aligns chromosomes at the equator, anaphase separates sister chromatids, and telophase reforms nuclei.​
Option (B) places anaphase before metaphase, which disrupts the process since alignment must precede separation.​
Option (C) starts with anaphase, ignoring initial condensation in prophase.​
Option (D) begins with anaphase, followed by metaphase, inverting the required progression.​

Mitosis ensures genetic continuity through the precise sequence of phases during mitosis: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. This process divides one cell into two identical daughters, vital for growth and repair in eukaryotic cells.​

Prophase Details

Chromosomes condense from chromatin, the nuclear envelope fragments, and spindle fibers form from centrosomes migrating to poles. Nucleoli disappear, preparing for division.​

Metaphase Alignment

Chromosomes align at the metaphase plate equator, with kinetochores attached to spindle microtubules from opposite poles, ensuring equal distribution.​

Anaphase Separation

Centromeres split; sister chromatids separate as chromosomes and move to opposite poles via shortening spindle fibers.​

Telophase Completion

Chromosomes decondense, nuclear envelopes reform around each set, nucleoli reappear, and cytokinesis follows to split cytoplasm.​