What is the first phase of mitosis called?

The first phase of mitosis is referred to as prophase. During prophase, several critical events occur that set the stage for the subsequent phases of mitosis. The chromatin, which is the complex of DNA and proteins in the nucleus, begins to condense into visible chromosomes. Each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids joined at a region called the centromere.

Additionally, the nuclear envelope starts to break down, allowing the spindle fibers to interact with the chromosomes. The spindle apparatus, which is crucial for the movement of chromosomes during mitosis, begins to form from the centrosomes that move apart to opposite poles of the cell. This phase is essential as it organizes the genetic material for accurate separation, ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.

Other stages mentioned, such as interphase, which is the phase where the cell prepares for mitosis, and telophase and metaphase, which occur later in mitosis, do not represent the beginning of the mitotic process. Interphase precedes mitosis, while telophase marks the end of mitosis, and metaphase involves the alignment of chromosomes in the middle of the cell. Understanding the characteristics of prophase helps clarify how the process of cell division is