Question

In mitosis, what chromatid combination(s) will be present during metaphase? What combination(s) will be present at each pole at the completion of anaphase?

Short answer

Answer: During metaphase, the chromatid combination present is the sister chromatids combination. Upon completion of anaphase, the combination present at each pole is a complete, identical set of chromatids (now chromosomes).

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Mitosis

Mitosis is a process of cell division where a cell divides into two identical daughter cells containing the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell, ensuring proper chromosomal distribution among the cells. The process consists of several stages: prophase, prometaphase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

Metaphase

During metaphase, the chromosomes align themselves at the equator, or the middle, of the cell. Each chromosome is made up of two sister chromatids which are attached at the centromere. The spindle fibers are connected to the centromeres, preparing the chromosomes for division.

Chromatid Combinations During Metaphase

In metaphase, each chromosome is present with its two sister chromatids. The chromosomes are aligned at the equator of the cell, and there is one chromatid combination present (sister chromatids combination).

Anaphase

Anaphase is the stage of mitosis where the sister chromatids are separated and pulled towards the opposite poles of the cell. The spindle fibers shorten, pulling the chromatids apart and ensuring equal distribution of genetic material in the two daughter cells.

Chromatid Combinations at the Completion of Anaphase

At the completion of anaphase, the separated chromatids have arrived at the opposite poles of the cell. Each pole will have a complete set of chromatids, which are now known as chromosomes. The chromatid combinations at each pole are identical to the combinations initially present in the parent cell. In conclusion, the chromatid combination present during metaphase is the sister chromatids combination, while the combination present at each pole upon completion of anaphase is the complete, identical set of chromatids (now chromosomes). These identical combinations ensure the proper distribution of genetic material to the daughter cells following mitosis.