During which phase do chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell?

• A. Chromosomes condense into visible rods
• B. Chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell
• C. The nucleus dissolves and spindle fibers form
• D. Chromatids are pulled apart to opposite sides

Answer: (B)

During metaphase, chromosomes align along the cell’s equator, forming the metaphase plate. This precise lining up is guided by spindle fibers attached to kinetochores, ensuring that when the next step occurs, each sister chromatid is pulled toward opposite poles. Before metaphase, chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes and the nuclear envelope breaks down to allow spindle formation. After metaphase, during anaphase, the sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite sides, followed by telophase and cytokinesis to finish division. So the description of lining up in the middle identifies metaphase.