Final answer:
The correct order of events in mitosis is prophase, prometaphase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, where chromosomes first condense, then align at the metaphase plate, separate, and move to opposite poles before the cell divides.
Explanation:The Correct Order of Events in Mitosis
The correct order of events in mitosis is prophase, prometaphase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. During prophase, the chromosomes condense and become visible. In prometaphase, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and the mitotic spindle begins to interact with the chromosomes. Metaphase is characterized by the chromosomes aligning along the metaphase plate. During anaphase, sister chromatids separate and are pulled to opposite poles of the cell. Finally, in telophase, the separated chromosomes arrive at the poles, and the nuclear envelope starts to re-form around each set of chromosomes, followed by cytokinesis, where the cell divides into two distinct cells.
Understanding Mitosis Through Observation
Students observing mitosis under the microscope in onion cells or other organisms might notice these stages occurring in succession. Stages might be identified by the presence of certain structures, such as chromatids and mitotic spindles, which can be enhanced through staining techniques. Observing mitosis helps students understand the cell cycle and how cellular division enables growth and repair in organisms.