When do chromatids separate in mitosis?
1 Answer
Chromatids separate at anaphase stage of mitosis.
Explanation:
Mitosis consists of 4 phases:
1. Prophase
2. Metaphase
3. Anaphase
4.Telophase
Interphase stage intervenes between two successive mitotic divisions. During this stage synthesis of DNA occurs so that each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids intertwined around each other at the begining of prophase stage. These are identical to each other in all respects.
Chromosomes appear as long drawn out strands in early prophase forming a network. Each chromosome appears as single -stranded, though consists of two chromatids.
During prophase shortening and thickening of chromatid occurs so that each chromosome appears as short, thickened double stranded structure at the end of prophase stage.
At the end of prophase stage nuclear membtrane dissolves and spindle is formed by the astral rays arising from 2 centrioles present at the opposite ends of the spindle.
At metaphase stage, the chromosomes get arranged at the equator of the spindle. Centromere of each chromosome is attached to opposite poles of the spindle by contractile fibers.
The end of metaphase and the beginning of anaphase is marked by the splitting of the centromere, that separates two chromatids of chromosome. The separated chromatids start moving to the opposite poles.
Thus it is clear from the above accont that two chromatids of chromosome separate at anaphase stage of mitosis.
