Mitosis phases can be identified from chromosome condensation, equator alignment, chromatid separation and nuclear membrane reformation in actively dividing cells.
Coverage 2014–2014 · Updated 16 Jul 2026
Identify a mitosis phase from the position and appearance of chromosomes, using several features rather than cell shape alone.
| Phase | Reliable visible cues |
|---|---|
| Prophase | Chromosomes condense; the nuclear envelope begins to disappear |
| Metaphase | Condensed chromosomes align at the cell equator |
| Anaphase | Sister chromatids separate and move toward opposite poles |
| Telophase | Chromosomes reach the poles and new nuclear envelopes form |
Two groups of V-shaped chromatids moving away from the equator indicate anaphase, whether seen in a diagram, a prepared root-tip cell or a micrograph.
A dark stain or rounded cell outline is not enough to identify a phase. Confirm chromosome condensation, alignment or separation and nuclear-envelope state.
This objective is assessed through multiple choice, commonly using Identify.
Identify
Build the answer around this relationship: Condensed unaligned chromosomes suggest prophase.
Representative question
The following shows a micrograph.
How many cells are in metaphase?
2
3
5
7
