The diagram given below represents a stage during cell division. Study the same and answer the questions that follow: The diagram given below represents a stage during cell division. Study the same and answer the questions that follow:
Name the stage depicted in the diagram. What is the unique feature observed in this stage?
Topic: Metaphase
Answer
The stage is METAPHASE.
The unique feature is that the chromosomes are arranged in a single plane AT THE EQUATOR of the cell (the equatorial plane), with the spindle fibres attached to their centromeres.
Each stage of mitosis has ONE unmistakable feature, and naming it is what the question wants: PROPHASE — chromosomes visible but SCATTERED; nuclear membrane breaking down METAPHASE — chromosomes LINED UP at the equator in a single plane ANAPHASE — chromatids SEPARATED, moving to opposite poles, drawn V or J shaped TELOPHASE — two groups at the poles; nuclear membranes re-forming
Metaphase is also the stage at which chromosomes are most CONDENSED and clearly visible, which is why it is the stage used for preparing a KARYOTYPE.