What are the different stages of mitosis and what do they consist of?

Mitosis can be grouped into four main stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase and telophase.
Prophase: the chromosomes supercondense, the nuclear envelope disintegrates and the centrioles migrate to the poles of the cell.
Metaphase: the chromosomes line up at the equator of the cell, moved by spindle fibres (which are attached to the centromeres) from the centrioles.
Anaphase: the chromosomes are split at the centromeres and one half of each is pulled one pole, and the other to the other.
Telophase: the cell membrane constricts around the middle of the cell and the nuclear envelopes begin to appear around the chromosomes. Eventually the cell splits in two, forming two identical daughter cells with n genetic material.

HJ
Answered by Harry J. Biology tutor

4708 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

suggest and explain two ways the cell-surface membranes of the cells lining of the uterus may be adapted to allow rapid transport of nutrients


In what circumstances and how do humans anaerobically respire?


Describe the functions of glycoproteins in the cell surface


Mitosis is the process of cell division, it occurs in humans and in plants. Compare and contrast the process of mitosis in human cells and in plant cells (5 marks)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning