Which phase is associated with condensation of chromatin into visible chromosomes?

Which phase is associated with condensation of chromatin into visible chromosomes?

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

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is when chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes during cell division. This condensation occurs in prophase, the first stage of mitosis, when the long chromatin fibers coil up into the distinct chromosomes you can see under a light microscope. The nuclear envelope also begins to break down, and the spindle apparatus starts to form to prepare for chromosome segregation. In later stages, the chromosomes remain condensed during metaphase as they align at the center, separate into sister chromatids during anaphase, and then de-condense with the nuclear envelope re-forming in telophase. Interphase features diffuse, uncondensed chromatin, not visible chromosomes.

The idea being tested is when chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes during cell division. This condensation occurs in prophase, the first stage of mitosis, when the long chromatin fibers coil up into the distinct chromosomes you can see under a light microscope. The nuclear envelope also begins to break down, and the spindle apparatus starts to form to prepare for chromosome segregation. In later stages, the chromosomes remain condensed during metaphase as they align at the center, separate into sister chromatids during anaphase, and then de-condense with the nuclear envelope re-forming in telophase. Interphase features diffuse, uncondensed chromatin, not visible chromosomes.