Question

Separation of the sister chromatids is a characteristic of which stage of mitosis? a. prometaphase b. metaphase c. anaphase d. telophase

Short answer

The separation of sister chromatids occurs in the anaphase stage of mitosis. Therefore, the correct answer is c. anaphase.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Mitosis Stages

Mitosis is a process where a single cell divides into two genetically identical daughter cells. This process consists of several stages, which are: 1. Prometaphase 2. Metaphase 3. Anaphase 4. Telophase Let's analyze each stage to find out in which stage the sister chromatids separate.

Stage 1: Prometaphase

In prometaphase, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and microtubules from the spindle apparatus begin to interact with the sister chromatids.

Stage 2: Metaphase

In metaphase, the sister chromatids align themselves along the equatorial plane of the cell, also known as the metaphase plate. The spindle microtubules attach to the kinetochores of each sister chromatid.

Stage 3: Anaphase

In anaphase, the sister chromatids are pulled apart and move towards the opposite poles of the cell. This occurs as the microtubules shorten, essentially separating the sister chromatids.

Stage 4: Telophase

In telophase, the separated sister chromatids reach the opposite poles of the cell. The spindle apparatus disassembles, and the nuclear envelope reforms around the new, separate sets of chromosomes.

Identifying the Correct Answer

By analyzing each stage of mitosis, we can see that the separation of sister chromatids occurs in anaphase. Therefore, the correct answer is: c. anaphase