The behaviour of chromosomes during interphase, prophase, metaphase, anaphase and telophase of mitosis
Mitosis splits one cell into two identical cells. Chromosomes go through five named stages as this happens. Each stage has a distinct, testable behaviour.
Real World
Onion root tip cells are a classic material for viewing mitosis under a light microscope because they divide rapidly — students in school labs can identify prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase in the same prepared slide simultaneously.
Exam Focus
Use the mnemonic IPMAT and learn one distinct chromosome behaviour per stage — examiners reward precise stage-specific descriptions, not vague generalities.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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