A Level Biology Practice Exam

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During which stage of mitosis do chromosomes line up at the metaphase plate?

Prophase
Anaphase
Metaphase
Telophase

The correct answer is: Metaphase

During mitosis, chromosomes align at the metaphase plate during the metaphase stage. This stage is characterized by the maximally condensed chromosomes being positioned in the middle of the cell, equidistant from the two poles. This arrangement allows for the spindle fibers, which extend from the centrosomes at each end of the cell, to attach correctly to the centromeres of the chromosomes. The positioning of chromosomes at the metaphase plate is crucial for the proper segregation of sister chromatids in the next stage of mitosis. If they are not aligned correctly, it could lead to unequal distribution of genetic material to the daughter cells, which is essential for maintaining the correct chromosome number in cells after division. This precise alignment and attachment ensure that each new cell receives one copy of each chromosome, which is critical for genetic stability in the resulting daughter cells.