Cytokinesis overlaps with which phase of mitosis? The S phase Telophase Metaphase Prophase Interphase
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: Telophase
Explanation:
Cytokinesis is the final step in the cell division process, during which the cytoplasm of a single eukaryotic cell divides to form two daughter cells. Although cytokinesis is technically a separate process from mitosis, it overlaps with the last stage of mitosis, which is telophase.
During telophase, the following events occur:
- The chromosomes reach opposite poles of the cell.
- The nuclear envelope reforms around each set of chromosomes, creating two nuclei.
- The chromosomes begin to uncoil and return to their less condensed form.
- The mitotic spindle breaks down.
At the same time, cytokinesis begins to take place. In animal cells, a contractile ring made of actin filaments forms at the center of the cell, known as the cleavage furrow. This ring tightens and pinches the cell membrane inward until the cell is divided into two separate daughter cells. In plant cells, a cell plate forms between the two nuclei, eventually developing into a separating cell wall.
Let’s clarify the other options to understand why they are incorrect:
- S phase is a part of interphase, not mitosis. This is when DNA replication occurs.
- Prophase is the first stage of mitosis, involving chromosome condensation and spindle formation. Cytokinesis does not occur here.
- Metaphase follows prophase and involves the alignment of chromosomes at the metaphase plate. Cytokinesis has not begun at this point.
- Interphase is the phase of the cell cycle in which the cell prepares for division, and it includes G1, S, and G2 phases. It occurs before mitosis starts and is not associated with cytokinesis.
In conclusion, cytokinesis begins during telophase and finishes shortly after, resulting in the complete division of one cell into two genetically identical daughter cells.
