Chromosome structure can be observed best during ____
AAnaphase
BMetaphase
CProphase
DNone of the above
Answer:
C. Prophase
Read Explanation:
Prophase is the first stage of mitosis in which the genetic material in a cell begins to condense to form chromosomes.
The best time to study chromosome size and shape is metaphase/late prophase as the chromosomes are most condensed in this phase.
Cells can also be experimentally arrested at metaphase with mitotic poisons such as colchicine.
During anaphase, the chromosome splits at the centromere and move to opposite poles.
Hence the chromosome can be observed as sister chromatids in this stage.
The chromosomes decondense during telophase of cell cycle and loose their identity as discreet units.