Question

Under the microscope, we cannot see chromosome in which of the following phases of cell division?

1. leptotene
2. anaphase
3. diakinesis
4. late telophase

Answer 1

Chromosomes cannot be seen under the microscope during the late telophase of cell division because they begin to decondense and are no longer distinct structures. The correct answer is option 1.

Step-by-step explanation:

Chromosomes cannot be observed under the microscope during the late telophase of cell division. During the late telophase, the previously condensed chromosomes start to decondense, and the nuclear envelope re-forms around the sets of chromosomes located at each pole of the cell.

As a result, the clear and distinct chromosomal structures seen in earlier stages of mitosis become less visible. This is in contrast to phases such as metaphase, where chromosomes are most condensed and aligned at the cell's equatorial plane, making them highly visible under a microscope.