Reading to Learn Mitosis

During which phase do chromosomes align, separate, and move into new daughter cells?

• A) Interphase

• B) G1 phase

• C) S phase

• D) Mitosis

Answer explanation

During Mitosis, chromosomes align at the cell's equator, separate, and move into new daughter cells. This process is crucial for ensuring each daughter cell receives the correct number of chromosomes.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS1-4

What is the non-dividing state some cells enter after the G1 phase?

• A) G2 phase

• B) S phase

• C) Mitosis

• D) G0 phase

Answer explanation

The non-dividing state that some cells enter after the G1 phase is called the G0 phase. In this phase, cells are metabolically active but do not prepare to divide, unlike the G2, S, or M phases.

What are proteins called that DNA is wound around?

• Nucleosomes

• Histones

• Chromatids

• Centromeres

Answer explanation

Proteins that DNA is wound around are called histones. They help package DNA into a compact, organized structure, allowing it to fit within the cell nucleus.

What is the structure that DNA forms when it is tightly packed?

• Histone

• Supercoil

• Chromatid

• Nucleosome

Answer explanation

When DNA is tightly packed, it forms a supercoil structure. This occurs as DNA wraps around itself to fit within the confines of the cell nucleus, making supercoiling an essential aspect of DNA organization.

What happens to the nucleolus during early prophase?

• It becomes larger

• It disappears

• It divides

• It changes color

Answer explanation

During early prophase, the nucleolus disappears as the cell prepares for mitosis. This is part of the overall chromatin condensation and nuclear envelope breakdown that occurs during this phase.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS1-4

What is the main event during late prophase (prometaphase)?

• Chromosomes align at the center

• Nuclear envelope breaks down

• Cell membrane forms

• DNA replication occurs

Answer explanation

During late prophase (prometaphase), the nuclear envelope breaks down, allowing the spindle fibers to access the chromosomes. This is a crucial step for chromosome alignment and separation in the following phases.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS1-4

What is the role of microtubules during metaphase?

• They condense chromosomes.

• They line up chromosomes at the metaphase plate.

• They pull chromosomes apart.

• They replicate chromosomes.

Answer explanation

During metaphase, microtubules align chromosomes at the metaphase plate, ensuring they are properly positioned for separation. This is crucial for accurate cell division.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS1-4

Which phase is characterized by microtubules pushing poles apart?

• Metaphase

• Anaphase

• Prophase

• Telophase

Answer explanation

Anaphase is characterized by the separation of sister chromatids, with microtubules pushing the poles of the cell apart, facilitating the movement of chromosomes towards opposite ends.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS1-4

Identify the Cell Cycle Stage.

• Cytokinesis
• Interphase
• Anaphase
• Metaphase

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS1-4