What happens in prophase?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the events and processes that occur during prophase, which is the first stage of cell division in mitosis and meiosis. This stage involves the condensation of chromatin into chromosomes, the formation of the mitotic spindle, and the breakdown of the nuclear envelope.
Answer
Chromosomes condense, the nuclear membrane breaks down, and spindle fibers form in prophase.
During prophase in mitosis, chromosomes condense and the nuclear membrane breaks down, while spindle fibers form. In meiosis, homologous chromosomes pair up and crossing over occurs in prophase I. Prophase II involves condensation of chromosomes and spindle fiber attachment.
Answer for screen readers
During prophase in mitosis, chromosomes condense and the nuclear membrane breaks down, while spindle fibers form. In meiosis, homologous chromosomes pair up and crossing over occurs in prophase I. Prophase II involves condensation of chromosomes and spindle fiber attachment.
More Information
Prophase is the initial stage of mitosis and meiosis when chromatin condenses to form visible chromosomes. This step prepares the cell for chromosome separation. In prophase I of meiosis, genetic material exchanges between homologous chromosomes, ensuring genetic diversity in offspring.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing prophase in mitosis with prophase I and II in meiosis. Ensure you differentiate between the processes taking place in these phases.
Sources
- Phases of mitosis | Mitosis | Biology (article) - Khan Academy - khanacademy.org
- Mitosis | Learn Science at Scitable - Nature - nature.com
- Prophase - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify critical information
