Question
What is the metaphase (second phase) of mitosis? State its some important characteristics.
Answer
Metaphase is the second stage of mitosis, during which the chromosomes line up along the equator of the cell and the spindle fibers attach to the centromeres. Here are some important characteristics of metaphase:
- Chromosome alignment: The spindle fibers pull the chromosomes towards the centre of the cell, where they line up along the equator in a single plane, called the metaphase plate.
- Chromosome attachment: The spindle fibers attach to the kinetochores, protein structures located on the centromeres of each chromosome, ensuring that each chromosome is properly aligned and attached to the spindle fibers.
- Chromosome inspection: The cell inspects the alignment of the chromosomes and ensures that each chromosome is attached to the spindle fibers before proceeding to the next stage of mitosis.
- Checkpoint activation: The metaphase checkpoint is activated, which monitors chromosome alignment and ensures that each daughter cell will receive the correct number and type of chromosomes.
