Overview
Prophase is a critical phase in the process of mitosis, marking the beginning of cell division. During this stage, chromatin condenses into distinct chromosomes, making them visible under a microscope. The nuclear envelope starts to break down, allowing the spindle apparatus to form and prepare for ...
Key Terms
Example: Chromatin is less visible during interphase but becomes tightly packed during prophase.
Example: Humans have 46 chromosomes, which are visible during prophase.
Example: The nuclear envelope breaks down during prophase to allow spindle fibers to access chromosomes.
Example: The spindle apparatus forms during prophase and is crucial for chromosome movement.
Example: Centrosomes move to opposite poles of the cell during prophase.
Example: Each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids during prophase.