Florida Biology EOC Practice Test

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During which phase do chromosomes condense and become visible under a microscope?

Anaphase
Metaphase
Prophase
Telophase

The correct answer is: Anaphase

The phase in which chromosomes condense and become visible under a microscope is prophase. During prophase, the chromatin fibers in the nucleus begin to coil and condense into discrete chromosomes, making them distinguishable. Each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids joined at the centromere. This phase marks the beginning of mitosis, as the nuclear envelope starts to break down and the spindle apparatus begins to form. In contrast, during anaphase, the sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell. Metaphase is characterized by chromosomes aligning along the metaphase plate, but they are not yet condensed into the definitive structures visible under light microscopy as they are in prophase. Lastly, telophase sees the reformation of the nuclear envelope around the separated chromosomes, which decondense back into chromatin, losing their distinct visibility.