What is the correct order of the first four phases of mitosis?

• A. Interphase
• B. Prophase, Metaphase, Telophase, Anaphase
• C. Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase
• D. Prophase, Anaphase, Metaphase, Telophase

Answer: (C)

Mitosis follows a sequence where chromosomes condense, align, separate, and nuclei reform. The four major stages listed in this sequence are Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase. In prophase, the chromosomes condense and become visible while the spindle apparatus forms. In metaphase, the chromosomes line up along the equatorial plane. In anaphase, the sister chromatids are pulled apart toward opposite poles. In telophase, the chromosomes arrive at the poles, the nuclear envelopes reform, and the chromosomes begin to de-condense. Cytokinesis then divides the cytoplasm, completing cell division.

This order fits the progression of the main mitotic events before cytokinesis, which is why it’s the best choice for describing the first four stages. Interphase is not part of mitosis, and other sequences misorder the events (for example, placing telophase before or before anaphase).