During which mitosis phase do chromosomes align along the middle of the cell?

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

Answer: (A)

Metaphase is the stage where chromosomes align along the middle of the cell, at what scientists call the metaphase plate. After chromosomes condense and the spindle apparatus forms, microtubules attach to kinetochores on each chromosome and pull them into a single, equatorial plane halfway between the two poles. This precise alignment ensures that, when the cell proceeds to the next stage, sister chromatids can be separated accurately to opposite ends of the cell. In contrast, prophase features chromosome condensation and nuclear envelope breakdown; anaphase pulls the sister chromatids apart to opposite poles; and telophase reassembles nuclei and widens the cell as chromosomes arrive at the poles.