Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) Secondary Integrated Science Practice test

Which of the following describes the steps in the cell division process of mitosis in the correct order?

1. Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase

2. Prophase, Telophase, Metaphase, Anaphase

3. Metaphase, Prophase, Anaphase, Telophase

4. Interphase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase

The correct answer is: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase

The correct sequence of steps in the cell division process of mitosis is indeed Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase. During Prophase, the chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, and the nuclear envelope begins to break down. This stage sets the foundation for the subsequent alignment of chromosomes. In the Metaphase stage, the chromosomes line up at the metaphase plate (the cell's equatorial plane), and spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes. This alignment is crucial for ensuring that each daughter cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes. Anaphase follows, during which the spindle fibers shorten, pulling the sister chromatids apart toward opposite poles of the cell. This separation is critical for maintaining genetic consistency in the daughter cells. Finally, Telophase occurs, where the separated chromatids reach the poles and begin to de-condense back into chromatin. Additionally, the nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, preparing the cell for cytokinesis and the completion of cell division. The other options disrupt this necessary order, such as starting with Telophase before Metaphase or placing Interphase, which is actually a preparatory phase before mitosis, rather than